Ronaldo loses city council election despite support from football legend Romário

Ronaldo Faria, brother of Brazilian football legend and Senator Romário, has failed in his bid to be elected as a city councilor in Rio de Janeiro, Soccernet.football reports.

Despite being backed by his famous sibling, Ronaldo received only 3,558 votes, which left him out of the race, as per Ojogo. This was the first time Romário, currently serving his second term in Congress, had attempted to help a family member enter politics.

Ronaldo’s candidacy was part of a broader strategy by the Liberal Party (PL), which included former president Jair Bolsonaro, aiming to capitalise on the popularity of celebrities and their families to attract voters. Despite his efforts, Ronaldo Faria remains a substitute candidate.

Having served as an advisor to both the City Council and the Rio de Janeiro State Legislative Assembly, Ronaldo also held roles as Secretary of Sports in the municipalities of Duque de Caxias and Mangaratiba. However, this election marked his first attempt at public office.

“I want to be his extension in Rio,” Ronaldo explained when discussing his brother’s influence. “Romário needs someone in the city to ensure that the amendments he sends are directed to the right areas: sports, social services, and people with disabilities.”

Like his brother, Ronaldo Faria also ventured into football, having played in Portugal and Belgium after his time as a youth player for Vasco da Gama. He later worked as a coach before turning his attention to public life.

Romário remains the more prominent figure in the family, having enjoyed a storied football career that included winning the 1994 FIFA World Cup with Brazil and transitioning into a successful political career.