Rio Grande do Norte suffers from a lack of prestige on the national sports stage, being excluded from the 2027 Women’s World Cup while facing questionable management.
Natal boasts one of the most modern and beautiful arenas in the entire country, the Arena das Dunas. Furthermore, local talent is well-represented, with players frequently called up to the Brazil national team. Even so, Rio Grande do Norte was solemnly ignored and will not host a single match of the 2027 Women’s World Cup.
For columnist Pedro Neto, this is a clear sign of a lack of prestige. The abandonment of local football, according to his analysis, is not a matter of a lack of physical infrastructure, but rather a reflection of executives concerned with private interests and personal projects, rather than seeking the growth and visibility that the state deserves in national sports.
The cost of poor management
The state’s exclusion leaves RN out of a massive economic impact. It is estimated that the Women’s World Cup will generate approximately R$ 9 billion for the Brazilian economy, creating around 75,000 direct and indirect jobs. Rio Grande do Norte will not have access to a single one of these opportunities, a wasted chance that could have boosted the service sector and regional tourism.
Expectations on local pitches
While football politics fail, the clubs continue their battle. América-RN is preparing for its clash against Gama at the Arena das Dunas. The expectation is a crowd between 10,000 and 25,000 fans, which, in the words of Pedro Neto, “is not due to the SAF (Limited Liability Football Company), but to the red fans who have never abandoned their club.” The team needs an expressive victory to ensure peace of mind for the second leg.
Meanwhile, ABC takes the field against Luverdense with a clear stance: the need to chase a result.
“The ABC team cannot step onto the field against Luverdense thinking about a draw. Or playing with their backs to the wall. They have to play to win. Those who play for a draw usually lose,” notes the columnist.
Global football landscape
The international scene is also heating up. The 2026 World Cup final pits Argentina against Spain. Although admiration for Spanish football is evident, Pedro Neto bets on the strength and grit of Argentina to take home the trophy. In the third-place match between England and France, the mood is one of little enthusiasm for the athletes, with star striker Mbappé serving as the only exception in terms of motivation on the pitch.
Brazilian sports, however, have reasons to celebrate beyond the traditional lines. The country shined in the Para South American Games, winning 248 medals, 110 of which were gold. The delegation’s success featured the leadership of the doctor from Rio Grande do Norte, Dr. Roberto Vital—a bright spot amidst the difficulties faced by Brazilian clubs, such as the delicate situation of Vasco da Gama in the relegation zone and the administrative disorganization of Santos.
Football in Rio Grande do Norte is going through a decisive moment. The lack of strategic vision to attract major events is an open wound, but the passion of the fans remains the driving force that keeps the sport alive in the state, despite leadership that frequently leaves much to be desired.
