Braathen Wins Kranjska Gora Giant Slalom, Puts Pressure on Odermatt

Kranjska Gora, Slovenia – Olympic champion Lucas Pinheiro Braathen secured victory in the men’s Alpine skiing giant slalom in Kranjska Gora on Saturday, intensifying the pressure on World Cup overall leader Marco Odermatt in the battle for the discipline’s crystal globe. Reuters and The Strait Times reported on the event.

Braathen’s Victory and Odermatt’s Performance

The Norwegian-born Brazilian finished 0.54 seconds ahead of Switzerland’s Loic Meillard, with Austria’s Stefan Brennsteiner taking third place. Odermatt, who leads the World Cup standings in downhill, super-G, and giant slalom, finished fifth. The Strait Times detailed Odermatt’s performance.

Standings and Remaining Races

Despite his fifth-place finish, Odermatt maintains a 48-point lead in the giant slalom standings with one race remaining. The final giant slalom of the season will be held at the World Cup finals in Norway on March 24. Reuters confirmed the details of the remaining races.

Overall World Cup Lead

Odermatt as well holds a substantial 632-point lead over Braathen in the overall World Cup standings, with eight races still to come across all disciplines. The Strait Times reported on the overall standings.

Braathen’s Perspective

“I’m just skiing with a lot of happiness, a lot of joy,” Braathen said, reflecting on a win that marked two years since his return under the Brazilian flag. He emphasized his focus on enjoying the sport even as preparing for the remaining races and title pursuits. The Strait Times quoted Braathen’s comments.

Looking Ahead

Braathen is also a contender for the slalom title, currently trailing leader Atle Lie McGrath by just one point. The men will compete in a slalom race in Kranjska Gora on Sunday. The Strait Times previewed the upcoming slalom race.