Braathen triumphs again in Levi: "Very emotional for me"

Lucas Pinheiro Braathen proved his strong early-season form in the slalom as well in Levi.

The Brazilian defended his title at the Finnish World Cup venue—becoming the first skier in history to do so—and surged to the top after two outstanding runs ahead of France's Clement Noel and Switzerland's Loic Meillard (to the race report>>>). With 200 points and back-to-back victories to open the season, he laid down an impressive marker in the race for the overall World Cup.

"I don't know what to say. I'm so happy because Levi is a truly special place for me," a visibly emotional 26-year-old told "ORF" after the race. It was here of all places that he secured his first World Cup triumph last year following his switch of allegiance from Norway to Brazil.

"Can be the best"

"Last year I claimed the first World Cup win for Brazil here, which is why it's very emotional for me. A lot has happened since then, and I'm proud to win here again. Hopefully, I can complete the hat-trick next season," Braathen said.

"My goal is to ski with heart and happiness. When I do that, I can be the best. Those are the elements of my performance that I'm proud of," he added.

Traditionally, a victory in Levi also includes the sponsorship of a reindeer. Braathen does not yet know what he will name the animal: "I still need to think about it." Last year, he named a reindeer "Björn" in homage to his father.