Brazilian football legend Ronaldo has officially declared his intention to contest for the presidency of the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF), citing a mission to restore international respect and address the sport’s deep-rooted challenges.
In an interview with Globoesporte, the iconic striker, affectionately known as “O Fenomeno,” articulated his vision for transforming Brazilian football.
“I have hundreds of motivations, but I think the biggest of them is really to restore international respect to Brazilian football,” Ronaldo emphasized, showcasing his passionate commitment to national football’s revival.
The 48-year-old former world-class footballer, who scored decisive goals in Brazil’s 2002 World Cup victory against Germany and twice won the prestigious Ballon d’Or, sees his potential CBF presidency as a critical opportunity for significant change.
“I am an alternative of significant change for Brazilian football, which is going through a deep crisis,” he declared.
Ronaldo’s primary objective extends beyond administrative reforms. He aims to reconnect the national team, known as the Selecao, with its passionate fan base.
“The Selecao has to recover its prestige. I’ll do everything so that the players understand the historic importance of playing for the national team,” he stated, highlighting the emotional and cultural significance of representing Brazil.
To secure his candidacy, Ronaldo must garner support from Brazilian regional clubs and federations.
His strategy involves personally traveling across the country to share what he describes as “incredible plans” for Brazilian football’s future.
The potential election timeline suggests the CBF presidency contest will occur between March 2025 and March 2026. Currently, the Selecao, coached by Dorival Junior, find themselves fifth in South American World Cup qualifying, trailing seven points behind Argentina.
Ronaldo’s leadership credentials extend beyond his illustrious playing career. He has previously demonstrated administrative prowess by taking majority control of Spanish club Real Valladolid in 2018 and Brazilian club Cruzeiro in 2021. He has strategic plans to divest from his Valladolid stake to eliminate potential candidacy obstacles.
The current CBF leadership under Ednaldo Rodrigues has faced criticism for interim coaching arrangements following Tite’s departure in 2022, particularly the unsuccessful pursuit of Carlo Ancelotti as national team coach.
Credit: (AFP)