- Ednaldo Rodrigues has been re-elected as president of the Brazilian Football Federation (CBF).
-
His re-election was uncontested after Ronaldo pulled out of the race.
-
Rodrigues secured support from all regional federations and top-division clubs.
-
He claims he faced persecution and a political plot to remove him from office.
-
Criticism persists over his handling of Brazil’s national team coaching decisions.
Ednaldo Rodrigues is set to continue leading the Brazilian Football Federation (CBF) after being unanimously re-elected as president on Monday. The decision was largely expected, as former football icon Ronaldo had already stepped aside from the race.
Rodrigues will remain in office until 2030, enjoying the backing of the 27 regional football federations across Brazil and the 40 clubs competing in the country’s top two divisions.
A Contentious Leadership Battle
In his victory speech, the 71-year-old described his re-election as a “triumph of democracy.” He also claimed that he had been subjected to unfair persecution in recent years.
“We have suffered all kinds of prejudice and persecution,” Rodrigues stated, referring to his temporary removal from office in late 2023 following a court ruling. He described the event as a “putsch” to undermine his leadership.
Rodrigues originally took over as CBF president in 2022, replacing Rogerio Caboclo, who was ousted following allegations of moral and sexual misconduct. However, his position was challenged when he was briefly removed from office. He was reinstated in early 2024 after FIFA and CONMEBOL warned Brazil of possible sanctions due to government interference in CBF affairs.
Ronaldo Bows Out of the Race
Rodrigues’ re-election became inevitable after 2002 World Cup champion Ronaldo announced on March 12 that he would not contest the presidency. The former striker admitted he lacked the necessary backing from regional federations to mount a serious challenge.
“If those with the power to decide to believe football is in good hands, then my opinion doesn’t matter,” Ronaldo said, effectively conceding the race. In December, he had expressed interest in leading the CBF, citing a “deep crisis” in Brazilian football that needed urgent attention.
Criticism Of National Team Management
Despite securing another term, Rodrigues has faced criticism over his management of the Brazilian national team. After Tite’s departure following the 2022 World Cup quarter-final exit, the federation opted for interim coaches while awaiting Carlo Ancelotti’s arrival. However, Ancelotti ultimately chose to stay with Real Madrid, leaving Brazil without a permanent head coach for months.
Eventually, Dorival Junior was appointed at the start of 2024, but many believe the delay in hiring a full-time manager reflected poor leadership from the CBF.
Rodrigues now faces the challenge of restoring stability and confidence in Brazilian football as he embarks on another six-year term at the helm.
