Open letter
Prolific and Generous Performance
Rio, January 17, 2008
The Helio Ferraz administration, from October 2002 to December 2003, marked the beginning of a new era for Flamengo. Indeed, in the club's history, it appears as the turning point in the return to good customs, seriousness, credibility, and ultimately, to Flamengo's glorious traditions.
Among its achievements are: the primary surplus of 2003, a consequence of a firm financial policy; the beginning of negotiations with the Regional Labor Court (TRT), which resulted in an agreement to pay labor debts, which has greatly benefited the Club; the settlement of numerous debts in the civil area, which were then subject to seizures; the renegotiation, under much more advantageous conditions, of contracts with the supplier of sports equipment and television broadcasts of games; the end of the harmful practice of financing organized fan groups; a serious and independent relationship with the football governing bodies; and the important conquest of the state championship of Rowing, which had not been held for six years.
For personal reasons, Helio Ferraz preferred not to continue as head of the Club.
In our administration, he has provided valuable assistance in negotiating sports equipment and television contracts; in contacts with foreign investors; and in matters related to the Gávea Revitalization Program, the football business association, and the new Statute. But, above all, we cannot fail to mention his impressive performance as Vice President of Football for three months in 2005, when he was largely responsible for averting the impending disaster. Helio also declined to continue as director of football because he didn't want to.
This Open Letter, which I publish with great satisfaction, has the greater intention of providing timely and fair recognition, on my behalf and on behalf of the entire Board of Directors, to President Helio Ferraz, for his fruitful and generous work for Flamengo.
Thank you, Helio Paulo!
Marcio Baroukel de Souza Braga\ President\