Flamengo honors icons with busts at Gávea; Arrascaeta and Bruno Henrique to be the next honorees.
Flamengo is once again demonstrating its deep appreciation for those who have written their names into the club’s history. In an initiative that defies the tradition of honoring legends only after they have passed, the club announced that it will unveil busts of two of its greatest modern-day icons: Arrascaeta and Bruno Henrique. The inauguration ceremony is scheduled for November 15, the date the club celebrates its 131st anniversary at the Gávea headquarters.
This decision highlights the importance that the current administration, led by president Luiz Eduardo Baptista (Bap), places on recognition while players are still active. The president emphasized the uniqueness of this approach in Brazilian football, where it is customary to celebrate achievements and legacies only posthumously. The goal is to cherish the present and the legacy players build while wearing the “Manto Sagrado” (Sacred Jersey).
Fitting recognition
The choice of Arrascaeta and Bruno Henrique is no coincidence. Both have been fundamental to Flamengo‘s recent successes, forming a partnership that has enchanted the “Nação” (the fan base). President Bap highlighted the synergy and impact of their partnership, describing Arrascaeta as a “soulmate” to Bruno Henrique in the club’s golden era.
“I believe that, contrary to our culture in Brazil, where we honor people when they die and recognize their actions after they are gone, we should change this process. So, a few months ago, we announced what we would do: a bust for Bruno Henrique. Bruno Henrique would be the player with the most trophies in Flamengo’s history. My friend (Roberto) Assaf disagrees, but some trophies, even though they are all important, don’t necessarily carry the same weight. And Bruno Henrique had a soulmate in this process: Arrascaeta. We will also immortalize Giorgian de Arrascaeta alongside Bruno Henrique,” Bap declared.
Preparations underway
Behind the scenes, the tribute is already in production. Stars Arrascaeta and Bruno Henrique have already sat for official photos and molding sessions to ensure the sculptures’ fidelity. A special detail is that both will be depicted wearing the 2025 kit, looking toward the future and maintaining a connection with the next generations of fans.
A Rubro-Negro pantheon
With this new tribute, Arrascaeta and Bruno Henrique will join a select group of Flamengo legends who already have busts at Gávea. This gallery houses icons such as Zico, Júnior, Leandro, Andrade, and Adílio, as well as Olivinha, the undisputed hero of the club’s basketball team. It is a recognition of the historical stature and impact these athletes have had on the club.
The ceremony in November promises to be an emotional moment, reaffirming Flamengo‘s commitment to celebrating its glory days and immortalizing its heroes, thereby fueling the love and passion for the shirt that guides the club.
