Rodrigues Secures CBF Presidency Unchallenged After Ronaldo Bows Out

Ednaldo Rodrigues has been re-elected president of the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) through 2030 after Ronaldo Nazário withdrew his candidacy citing lack of support. As reported by Inside World Football, Rodrigues secured all 141 votes from Serie A and B clubs and Brazil’s 27 state federations, running unopposed.

Rodrigues framed the result as a victory for democracy, though critics have raised concerns over his leadership, including the rushed election schedule and Brazil’s coaching instability post-Tite. He was briefly removed by a court ruling in 2023 before Brazil’s Supreme Court reinstated him amid pressure from FIFA and CONMEBOL.

Rodrigues defended his record, highlighting historic investments and Brazil’s successful bid to host the 2027 Women’s World Cup. He also addressed Ronaldo with respect, after the former star lamented the opaque election system: “It doesn’t let anyone in,” Ronaldo said. “Those in power re-elect themselves or pick their successor.”

While Ronaldo’s ambitions to reform Brazilian football fell short, Rodrigues extended an olive branch, calling for unity as he begins a new term at the CBF’s helm.