Brazil were first represented at a Winter Paralympics at Sochi 2014 and have eight competitors in action at the 2026 edition.

Because of the lack of snow in Brazil, much of Ribera’s training is done on roller skis, which have wheels to emulate cross-country skiing.

He said: “It’s very different, it’s very difficult, but I’m here representing Brazil and I’m very happy.”

Ribera, who was born with arthrogryposis multiplex congenita, which affects joint movement, is competing at his third Winter Paralympics.

His previous best finish came at Pyeongchang 2018 when, aged 15, he finished sixth in the 15km sitting event.

He failed to match that performance in Beijing four years later, but a World Championship sprint gold in 2025 put him among the medal favourites at Milan-Cortina.

His younger sister, Eduarda, represented Brazil in cross-country skiing at each of the past two Winter Olympics.