Legendary Brazilian footballer Marcos Evangelista de Morais “Cafu” joins Special Olympics as a Global Ambassador

Cafu, a football legend and a national hero in his native Brazil, is the latest international sports star to be welcomed into the Special Olympics family. Not only is he a two-time World Cup champion and the only player in history to have appeared in three World Cup finals, Cafu is also a powerful advocate for those who have been traditionally excluded from society.

Post his retirement Special Olympics global ambassador Cafu has dedicated himself to giving back to society, working with his own Foundation called Fundacao Cafu which is currently located in Jardim Irene where he was born and grew up.As a Special Olympics Global Ambassador, Cafu will promote the Special Olympics movement’s message of inclusion internationally and globally.

He will champion the rights of people with intellectual disabilities, raise awareness and resources, he will help further develop football, health as well as educate the society about individuals with an intellectual disability.The official signing of Cafu as a Global Ambassador took place at the recent Special Olympics Global Youth Leadership Forum in Baku which took place from the 25th- 28th of September 2018.

Speaking about his appointment as a Special Olympics Global Ambassador, Cafu said: “I am truly honoured to be selected as a Special Olympics Global Ambassador. I sincerely believe that sport, particularly in the hands of young people, has the power to change the world. I feel privileged to join the Special Olympics movement as it drives that change.”

David Evangelista, President and Managing Director, Special Olympics Europe Eurasia welcomed Cafu into the Special Olympics movement by saying that: “Special Olympics is thrilled to welcome Cafu to our movement as our newest Global Ambassador. Cafu’s story from the streets of his beloved Jardim Irene in Sao Paolo to World Cup glory is an inspiration to all of those who face difficult odds in life, particularly young people. He shows us that no matter who we are, we can and should dream big. I know that as our newest Global Ambassador Cafu will inspire, and be inspired by, Special Olympics athletes.”

A warm welcome to Cafu from the Special Olympics family, we know this journey travelled together will be beneficial to individuals with an Intellectual disability through all programs involved in Special Olympics.