Rodrigues, 68, will serve as the CBF president until March 2026 and will then be allowed to stand for re-election.

“It was not an easy process, nine months of injustices, infamies,” said Ednaldo. “And today democracy won. I spent the whole time defending myself, especially from prejudice. Everyone knows about my life, I have an unblemished character.

“In the last few months, I have suffered all kinds of pressure, prejudice, I have had my phones tapped, my e-mails violated, the e-mail of the CBF presidency’s office also violated. And prejudices that still exist in all segments of society because I’m from the Northeast, because I’m from Bahia, because I’m from the interior, from Vitória da Conquista and that I’m proud to be a son. Prejudice for being black. This is the great reality, the great answer.”