National Passion Revisited: From the Football CPI to the Present Day

By Senator Alvaro Dias

In his book "National Passion Revisited: From the Football CPI to the Present Day," Senator Alvaro Dias takes a deep dive into the history of football in Brazil, from its humble beginnings to its current status as a national obsession. Dias argues that football is more than just a sport in Brazil; it is a cultural phenomenon that has shaped the country's identity and society.

A History of Football in Brazil

Dias begins his book by tracing the history of football in Brazil, from its introduction by British immigrants in the late 19th century to its rise as a national sport in the early 20th century. He discusses the role of football in Brazilian society, from its use as a tool of social integration to its exploitation by politicians and businessmen.

The Football CPI

One of the most important chapters in Dias' book is his discussion of the Football CPI, a parliamentary inquiry into corruption in Brazilian football that took place in the early 2000s. The CPI uncovered widespread corruption in the sport, including match-fixing, money laundering, and tax evasion. Dias argues that the CPI was a watershed moment in Brazilian football, as it exposed the dark side of the sport and led to a number of reforms.

The Present Day

In the final part of his book, Dias discusses the current state of football in Brazil. He argues that the sport is still facing a number of challenges, including corruption, violence, and financial mismanagement. However, he also believes that football has the potential to be a force for good in Brazil, and he calls for a renewed commitment to the sport's development.

A Must-Read for Fans of Football and Brazilian Culture

"National Passion Revisited: From the Football CPI to the Present Day" is a must-read for anyone interested in football, Brazilian culture, or the intersection of sports and politics. Dias' book is a well-researched and engaging account of the history of football in Brazil, and it offers a unique perspective on the sport's role in Brazilian society.

Praise for "National Passion Revisited"

"A fascinating and insightful look at the history of football in Brazil. Dias' book is a must-read for anyone interested in the sport or Brazilian culture." —Pele, three-time World Cup winner

"A powerful and important book that exposes the dark side of football in Brazil. Dias' work is a wake-up call for anyone who cares about the sport." —Zico, former Brazil national team captain

"A well-written and engaging account of the history of football in Brazil. Dias' book is a valuable contribution to the literature on the sport." —Juca Kfouri, sports journalist