Griot: term of West African origin. “In Brazil, an individual who, in a community [..], holds the group’s memory and acts as a disseminator of traditions.” (Oxford Dictionary)

Flamengo's history offers its followers some privileges. The red-and-black fan can talk about the club's massive fan base, a true force of nature. They can mention the Sacred Mantle, with its unmistakable colors, which bends any clothesline and wins any battle. They can also proudly recall unparalleled stars, true giants who embodied the club's strengths and values. They can recount moments that bent the impossible, defied logic, and transformed reality.

Clube de Regatas do Flamengo, a unique and overwhelming cultural phenomenon, can be proud, above all, of having a representative worthy of its tradition. A wise man who never took the field but who witnessed this journey in his own way: Adenir Silva, popularly known as Denir.

Treated with reverence, admiration, and affection by every player on the professional soccer team, every employee, and every fan, Denir reciprocates each sentiment with truth in his eyes and dedication in every gesture. He wears the Flamengo colors with pride and is fully aware of the responsibility the Red-Black club demands of those who represent it.

Denir arrived at Flamengo on October 26, 1981, precisely. Over the past 41 years, he's been part of every possible achievement. From A to Z, from Adriano to Zico; he welcomed renowned athletes to the club and welcomed those who would go on to make history. He became a consensus figure. He lived through days of ecstasy, but also through the darkest moments.

He never lowered his head; on the contrary: always proud with the "CRF" on his chest, for four decades he has been a certainty, a guarantee. At the edge of the field, the nation can always see our living history. A true griot, in the most literal sense of the word: a guardian of our traditions, our values, our trajectory. Of what unites us. A monument of living red-and-blackness.

The embrace and positive energy of more than 42 million fans celebrate, more than ever, the life and strength of Denir. 41 years (and three days) after joining the Red-Blacks, the chance to conquer Eternal Glory once again.

Another tradition to spread to future generations.