Brazil, a sleeping giant awakens [4/6]

Fourth episode of our series dedicated to the leading countries of the Paralympic Games. Today, we focus on Brazil, which made a spectacular entry into the top 10 of the medal rankings in 2008 in Beijing. And which is now dreaming of the podium. With the second largest delegation at these Games behind China, the country is giving itself the means to achieve its ambitions. Thanks to stars like swimmer Gabriel dos Santos Araujo, three times crowned in Paris… Or like the blind football team, this derivative of 5-a-side football for the blind… Since the discipline appeared at the Games 20 years ago in Athens, Brazil has not lost a match, and has won five gold medals out of a possible five. At the foot of the Eiffel Tower, Martin Guez went to see these phenomena.

This article is the fourth in a series on the leading countries of Paralympic Games.

This is not a Rio or Sao Paulo derby… Just the Brazilian kop of blind football. Renata is discovering the discipline, having come from Belo Horizonte with her mother for the Games. Of course I came, I love my country! It’s the first time I’ve seen blind football, and I love it. It’s new for me, and they’re great players, they’re incredible! ” she said.

Also readParalympic Games: In blind football, Brazil wins against France in a tempting but unbalanced match

Ricardinho, the Pelé of Cecifoot

- RFI