Ronaldo Withdraws from Brazil FA Presidential Race

After failing to get enough support from regional federations to offer a candidature, Brazil football legend Ronaldo declared he was withdrawing from the contest to be president of his national football association (CBF) on Wednesday.

Former Ballon d’Or winner and two-time World Cup champion, 48-year-old revealed his decision to run for the presidency in December in an attempt to “recover the prestige and respect that Brazil always had” following years of issues surrounding CBF officials.

But the former Barcelona, Inter Milan, and Real Madrid forward realized he would not be able to oppose Ednaldo Rodrigues, the present president who enjoys virtually all of the voters.

“I discovered 23 closed doors when initially visiting the 27 regional federations. It doesn’t matter what I think if most decision-makers feel Brazilian football is in excellent hands,” Ronaldo said in a message sent on his social media platforms.

The federations turned me away from their homes based on their approval of the present government and backing for [Rodrigues]’ re-election.

“I was unable to explain my concept, put forward my views and listen to them as I would have liked. There was not any communication openness.

“There is obviously no way I could run; the statute grants the federations the strongest vote. Though I disagree with them, most of the local officials support the current president; it is their right and I respect it.

The 27 regional federations, assigned three votes apiece, make up the electoral college; the 20 top-flight Serie A clubs receive two votes apiece, and the 20 second-tier Serie B teams, one vote apiece.

Rodrigues is supposed to be the only applicant running in the election next year.