Flamengo's spearfishing team has confirmed its participation in the CMAS World Cup at the Rio de Janeiro Yacht Club this Friday (8) and Saturday (9). Nineteen teams from Europe and the Americas will be diving in the oceanic islands of the Marvelous City in search of the most sporty fish along the Rio coast. Descending in apnea, that is, using only air in their lungs, more than 19 athletes in this sport will compete to make their team world champion.

In addition to Flamengo, teams from the South and Northeast regions will compete for Brazil, as well as São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. 

All fish caught during the World Cup will be donated to Refeitório Gastromotiva, an NGO that provides meals to people experiencing food insecurity.

About the Spearfishing World Cup

The World Cup is organized by the World Confederation of Underwater Activities (CMAS), founded by Jacques Cousteau in 1951. They have held spearfishing world championships since 1957. Brazil has three world titles in the sport: two individual titles won by Bruno Hermanny and one team title, won in 1975 in Peru. The current champion, Spain's Trafalgar team, is in Rio to defend its title. The competition will feature four other former world champions in the sport, three Italians and one Cypriot, in addition to the Trafalgar athletes. 

About Spearfishing

Spearfishing is the most selective and sustainable fishing technique known to man, as spearfishers can choose exactly which fish to catch, with no incidental catches. In a spearfishing championship, the list of eligible fish is quite restrictive, with most fish permitted by IBAMA (Brazilian Institute of Environment and Renewable Natural Resources) and environmental laws being banned from competitors. Only game fish—those permitted by law, adult, abundant, edible, and difficult to catch—will be targeted by divers.