Rio de Janeiro female football pioneers inspire students

Former Brazilian national team players participated in the launch of the ‘Pioneiras nas Escolas’ (Pioneers in Schools) program at the Juan Antonio Samaranch Municipal School in Santa Teresa, Rio de Janeiro. The initiative brings veteran athletes to public schools to mentor young girls through football tournaments and interactive discussions.

During the event, former players Marisa Pires (Caju), Maria Lúcia Lima (Fia), and Marilza Martins (Pelezinha) met with over 100 students. They shared personal accounts of overcoming sexism and prejudice, highlighting the historical struggle for women's sports in Brazil. From 1941 to 1979, women were legally prohibited from playing football under Decree-Law 3.199, which deemed the sport incompatible with their nature.

The program, coordinated by former player Duda Luizelli in partnership with the Rio de Janeiro Municipal Education Secretariat, aims to use football as a tool for empowerment and gender equality. The initiative also serves as part of the city's preparations for hosting matches during the 2027 Women's World Cup.