Ednaldo Rodrigues has been re-elected as president of the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) after receiving unanimous support from the country’s football authorities. His reappointment was confirmed on Monday, with no opposition in the race following the withdrawal of former football star Ronaldo.
Rodrigues will serve until 2030, backed by all 27 regional federations and the 40 clubs from Brazil’s top two leagues. In his acceptance speech, the 71-year-old described his victory as a “triumph of democracy” and reflected on the challenges he faced, including his temporary removal from office in late 2023 due to a court ruling.
Initially elected in 2022 to replace Rogerio Caboclo, who had been accused of misconduct, Rodrigues was reinstated in early 2024 after intervention from Brazil’s Supreme Court. This decision followed pressure from FIFA and the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL), which warned Brazil of potential sanctions due to alleged government interference in CBF matters.
Ronaldo, a key figure in Brazil’s 2002 World Cup-winning squad, had previously expressed his desire to lead the CBF, citing concerns over a “deep crisis” in Brazilian football. However, on March 12, he announced his decision to step back from the race, citing a lack of support from regional federations.
“If those in power believe football is on the right path, then my opinion doesn’t change anything,” the 48-year-old stated.
Rodrigues has faced criticism for the instability in the national team’s coaching staff following Tite’s departure after the 2022 World Cup. The federation had relied on interim coaches while awaiting the arrival of Carlo Ancelotti, who ultimately remained with Real Madrid. The position was finally filled by Dorival Junior in early 2024.
