Flamengo Enters New Era with Portuguese Leader
Flamengo, one of Brazil’s most prestigious football clubs, embarks on a new chapter with the election of Luiz Eduardo Baptista (BAP) as its new president. Baptista, who secured victory in the club’s elections on December 10th, 2024, will steer the team for a three-year term ending in 2027.
This new leadership comes with a significant footballing appointment: Portuguese director José Boto is poised to take the helm of Flamengo’s football management in early 2025. The 58-year-old, currently serving as sporting director at Croatia’s Osijek, will be tasked with guiding the club’s sporting direction.
Boto’s career boasts a rich tapestry of experience, interwoven with Brazilian football. His expertise developed during his tenure at Benfica, where he progressed from scout to head of scouting. Further cementing his connection to Brazil, Boto worked with Shakhtar Donetsk, a Ukrainian club with deep historical ties to Brazil. His previous role at PAOK in Greece further rounds out his international experience.
All ballots counted. BAP is elected president of Flamengo for the three-year period 2025-2026-2027.
The end result:
BAP: 1.731
Dunshee: 1.166
MGM: 363Whites: 5
Nulls: 7— Emanuelle Ribeiro (@RRemanuelle) December 10, 2024
Baptista himself brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having previously served as president of Sky Brasil, a telecommunications giant. His journey with Flamengo began earlier, holding the pivotal role of president for the club’s Board of Directors. He also served as vice-president during Rodolfo Landim’s first term, leading the department of external relations and participating in decisions related to professional football.
Baptista’s presidential campaign witnessed the endorsement of the legendary Zico, lending significant weight to his candidacy. However, the continuity path ultimately belonged to Rodrigo Dunshee, until then general and legal vice-president. Another former club manager, Maurício Gomes e Mattos (MGM), also contested the election.
While Baptista hinted during the campaign at the potential return of Jorge Jesus to Flamengo, the immediate future sees Filipe Luís continuing as the team’s leader.
The arrival of both Baptista and Boto marks a significant turning point for Flamengo. Their combined expertise and vision will shape the club’s future, as they strive to build upon its rich history and deliver success both domestically and on the international stage.
How will the new director’s vision mesh with Filipe Luís’s existing managerial approach at Flamengo?
With a new director and a continuation of Filipe Luís as manager, is this a sign that Flamengo is doubling down on it’s current style or setting the stage for a much-needed evolution?
