Ronaldo Nazàrio to run for CBF Presidency
Brazilian football legend Ronaldo Nazário has announced his intention to run for the presidency of the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF), vowing to restore Brazil’s dominance on the global football stage.
In a statement, Ronaldo emphasized the importance of Brazil being a protagonist in major tournaments, including the FIFA World Cup, Copa America, and the Olympics.
“Brazil cannot afford to miss out on the Olympics. It’s unacceptable for the talent we have,” Ronaldo asserted, signaling his determination to reshape the country’s footballing trajectory.
To fully focus on his presidential ambitions, Ronaldo revealed he would sell his stake in Spanish La Liga club Real Valladolid.
Ronaldo has been the majority owner of Valladolid since 2018, overseeing the club’s promotion to the top tier and managing its long-term development. However, he now believes his full attention must turn to Brazilian football.
“I am committed to putting Brazilian football back where it belongs – at the top of the world. This requires my complete dedication, which is why I have decided to sell my stake in Real Valladolid,” Ronaldo explained.
Ronaldo, a two-time FIFA World Cup winner (1994 and 2002) and Ballon d’Or recipient, remains one of Brazil’s most iconic figures. His experience as both a player and club owner positions him as a strong candidate to lead the CBF, an organization that has faced significant scrutiny in recent years.
The former striker’s campaign focuses on revitalizing Brazil’s footballing system, improving infrastructure, youth development, and ensuring that Brazil consistently competes for and wins the sport’s most prestigious titles.
His vision reflects a frustration many fans share, particularly after Brazil’s recent disappointments on the international stage, including their absence from the 2024 Olympic Games.
Ronaldo’s pledge to step away from Real Valladolid demonstrates his readiness to prioritize Brazil’s football interests. The decision to sell his ownership stake is expected to garner further support among stakeholders who view his candidacy as a necessary shift in leadership for Brazilian football.