Biathlon | Brazilian Gaia Brunello, qualifier for the World Championships in Lenzerheide, tells Nordic Magazine: “I feel a sense of pride”

Biathlon: Gaia Brunello takes promising first steps with Brazil

At the beginning of December, 22-year-old biathlete Gaia Brunello announced her change of sporting nationality. Previously Italian, she is now defending the colours of Brazil, her mother’s country. Wearing her new combination for the first time at theIBU Cup in Obertilliach (Austria) before Christmas, she followed this up in January with races in Arber (Germany) and Brezno-Osrblie (Slovakia), where she finished a magnificent 19th.

Gaia Grunello secured her place at the World Championships in Lenzerheide (Switzerland) and the final World Cup period. This week, as she competes in the European Championships in Martell-Val Martello (Italy), she talks to Nordic Magazine. Interview.

• Earlier in January, you achieved historic results for Brazil in the IBU Cup: can you tell us about them?

First of all, I’m very proud of the results I achieved for Brazil in the IBU Cup. After placing above 30th in Arber, I achieved my best result in an individual race when I finished 19th in the individual short in Brezno-Osrblie with an 18/20. I felt very confident on the skis and my form is improving with every race. I really don’t think I’m too far away from my best performances. It means a lot to bring these results home to Brazil, a country with such a rich history in other sports. This achievement has been a great motivation for me, and I’m also incredibly proud of the way my team has supported me along the way.

• What made these results possible?

I think they were possible because I feel really good in the team and much freer in my approach. I’ve learnt to be in a more relaxed state, knowing that I can do what I like without any pressure. This feeling of freedom allows me to enjoy the race, and I think that’s a key factor: being able to race with a smile on my face gives me a lot of strength. To sum up, the positive atmosphere and support from my team have really made a difference to my performance.

• Was this top 20 finish in Slovakia a dream come true for you?

No, it wasn’t a dream. It was just another step towards the goal I set myself. I’m really proud of my race in Brezno-Osrblie. It was a good performance, but I know there’s still a lot to do. It’s not all I’ve got to give, and I can’t wait to find out what happens next.

• Precisely how far do you think you can go?

I’ve always believed in myself and I know my strengths. I really believe I can go far. I’m extremely motivated, I train hard and I have a great team and extraordinary people behind me who help me to progress in every area. I don’t know exactly where I’ll end up, but I do know that I’ll keep pushing myself and giving my best every time.

• You’ve qualified for the World Championships and the final round of the World Cup: we can only imagine how proud and moved you are by this achievement…

It’s such an honour to bring Brazil to this position, and I can’t wait to see what’s in store – we intend to go even further. I’d like to thank everyone who has supported me along the way, from the Brazilian Federation and the coaches to the coaches at my ski club and everyone else involved. Without them, it wouldn’t have been possible. I can’t say enough about how much I’m looking forward to the World Championships – I’m excited and a bit nervous too!

• What are your objectives for the World Championships?

At the World Championships, my main aim will be to enjoy the atmosphere and absorb the energy of the world’s best athletes. I hope to learn from them, make as much progress as possible and, above all, do my best biathlon during the races. I want to make the most of this experience and see where it takes me!

• What’s so special about representing Brazil in a competition?

It’s incredibly special for me. It’s not just about the sport, but also about bringing visibility to a country that’s not traditionally known for biathlon. It’s an honour to carry Brazil’s flag and show that we can excel in sports that exceed people’s expectations. I feel a sense of pride knowing that I’m helping to pave the way for future Brazilian athletes, and I feel a deep connection to my roots every time I put my skis on the start line. It motivates me to work harder and push the limits, not only for myself but also for my country.

• “A challenge that encourages me to grow”: Italy’s Gaia Brunello, 22, takes on the sporting nationality of Brazil, her mother’s country
• “When I saw Lucas Pinheiro Braathen’s exploits, I felt incredibly motivated”: why did Italian Gaia Brunello decide to become a Brazilian sportswoman?