With the arrival and spread of the novel coronavirus in Brazil, Rio's four major clubs quickly came together, certain that jersey color doesn't matter and that everyone's greatest rival at this moment is one. In this moment of unity, Botafogo, Flamengo, Fluminense, and Vasco are jointly launching the "Against Covid-19, we have one fan base" campaign today.

To participate, fans must simply access the website www.futebolxcovid19.com.br, select your club, register, and choose the amount you wish to donate. On the campaign portal, you can track donation progress, invite friends to join the movement, and, at the end of the campaign, verify how the funds were used. For greater transparency, an independent external auditor will be working throughout the campaign.

The funds raised in this campaign will be donated to Fiocruz to help combat and treat the novel coronavirus, in actions such as the production of diagnostic kits, care for people with severe cases, at the Hospital Center for the Covid-19 Pandemic – National Institute of Infectology, which is being built at Fiocruz headquarters, community support and research that collaborate with the fight against the disease and patient care.

For Mario Moreira, Fiocruz's Vice President of Management and Institutional Development, who coordinates the United Against COVID-19 initiative, this action demonstrates the importance of unity and solidarity in times like these. "There is much to be done, and Fiocruz is firmly committed to fighting COVID-19, as is its history and tradition. The clubs' commitment to this cause demonstrates their unanimous support in combating this pandemic," says Mario.

The main goal is to mobilize crowds, and Brazilians' passion for soccer gives the clubs a strong presence and a huge reach in society. Flamengo president Rodolfo Landim emphasized the clubs' importance in this campaign.

"It is extremely appropriate to use the potential of such strong brands to mobilize for science and collective well-being. Our Red-Black Nation is invited to join this noble and humanitarian action. Together, we will overcome this," said the Red-Black leader.

Botafogo president Nelson Mufarrej also called on the black and white fans to participate in this movement.

"This initiative is quite significant during these difficult times, and Rio de Janeiro football is promoting a movement that will care for others and save lives. Botafogo relies on the support of its fans and reiterates the importance of working together with Flamengo, Fluminense, and Vasco to mitigate the spread of Covid-19. The rivalry only exists on the field," Mufarrej stated.

Combating the spread of the novel coronavirus is everyone's fight, and now is the time to raise the flag of solidarity. Fluminense President Mario Bittencourt commented on the clubs' joint initiative.

"We are living in a very serious social situation, and all support is more than welcome. Society needs this help, and Fluminense, together with its fellow members, is raising its flag and calling on the Tricolor fans to spread this idea. Together, we can make a difference," the Tricolor leader emphasized.

Known for its commitment to social causes, Vasco also made itself available to support this initiative, as reinforced by president Alexandre Campello.

"This is a priority action, and time is of the essence. We understand our social responsibility and are always seeking alternatives to help address this critical situation. Vasco highlights the greatness of Rio's football by uniting for this cause," Campello assured.

Although it began in Rio de Janeiro, the campaign is expected to be embraced by other clubs across Brazil. Everyone's hope is that this critical moment will be resolved in the best possible way in Brazil and around the world. With the support of every fan, we will be able to win this fight and soon be together again in the stands.

About Fiocruz

The Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, which celebrates its 2020th anniversary in 120, has been responsible for promoting well-being and social inclusion for over a century through science, citizenship, and the strengthening of quality public health for the Brazilian population. Its importance transcends national boundaries, and it is internationally recognized as a leading institution in science and public health. Learn more by visiting https://portal.fiocruz.br/.