Ronaldo has withdrawn from the CBF presidential race due to a lack of support from regional federations, realizing he could not contest the current president Ednaldo Rodrigues, who has majority backing. His attempts to connect with federations were unsuccessful, leading to his withdrawal from candidacy.
Brazilian football legend Ronaldo has officially withdrawn from the presidential race of the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) due to insufficient support from regional federations. The 48-year-old, who has previously claimed the Ballon d’Or and won two World Cups, initially announced his candidacy in December with the aim of restoring Brazil’s footballing prestige amid controversies surrounding CBF leadership.
Ronaldo assessed the situation after reaching out to the 27 regional federations, only to find that 23 did not express any willingness to support his candidacy. Consequently, he recognized that challenging the incumbent president, Ednaldo Rodrigues, who has widespread backing among the electorate, was unfeasible. In his statement, he remarked on the closed nature of discussions with federations.
“On my first contact with the 27 regional federations, I found 23 closed doors. If the majority of decision-makers believe that Brazilian football is in good hands, it does not matter what I think,” he stated, explaining that his inability to present his vision or engage in meaningful dialogue led to his decision. He acknowledged the federations’ support for Rodrigues’ re-election, emphasizing that their preferences are within their rights.
The electoral system comprises 27 regional federations, each possessing three votes, 20 Serie A clubs receiving two votes, and 20 Serie B teams obtaining one vote each. As a result of Ronaldo’s withdrawal, Rodrigues is anticipated to be the sole candidate in the upcoming election.
In conclusion, Ronaldo’s withdrawal from the CBF presidential race highlights the challenges faced by candidates lacking broad support from regional federations. Despite his esteemed football career and aspirations to revitalize Brazilian football, the overwhelming backing for the incumbent president leaves him with no viable path forward. As the electoral landscape settles, it appears Rodriques will seek re-election unopposed.
Original Source: www.espn.com
