CAPOEIRA AND ITS PATH TO OLYMPIC RECOGNITION
Capoeira in Brazil did not arrive fully formed in Africa. It developed on Brazilian soil, and some say it was reinvented here.
Since the first documents mentioning capoeira, it already had characteristics similar to those we know today. However, it has undergone many transformations throughout its history. Therefore, talking about "tradition" in capoeira requires caution: it is important to specify which moment in history we are referring to.
Capoeira is a form of language and, like any language, is subject to transformations over time.
In the second half of the last century, capoeira was already described as an authentic Brazilian gymnastics, thanks to its diverse movements that provide flexibility, strength and balance. It was no coincidence that it was recognized as Brazil's national sport.
Throughout its history, capoeira has evolved from a marginalized form of combat to an academic discipline studied at universities in Brazil and around the world.
It is only natural that, with this journey, capoeira began to be considered for inclusion as an official Olympic sport. This process has been underway for some time, although it has not yet been successful.
However, we believe that it is only a matter of time before capoeira reaches the Olympic stage. Recognition as an Olympic sport is a natural step in its progression.
In view of past failed attempts to obtain Olympic recognition, the International Capoeira Federation (ICF) is renewing this effort, with the sole aim of achieving this long-awaited milestone.
Capoeira deserves this recognition. Its structural diversity — combining fighting, playing and dancing — makes it uniquely qualified.
We know that the road may be long and full of challenges, but this is to be expected. It is only a matter of time.
Since the first documents mentioning capoeira, it already had characteristics similar to those we know today. However, it has undergone many transformations throughout its history. Therefore, talking about "tradition" in capoeira requires caution: it is important to specify which moment in history we are referring to.
Capoeira is a form of language and, like any language, is subject to transformations over time.
In the second half of the last century, capoeira was already described as an authentic Brazilian gymnastics, thanks to its diverse movements that provide flexibility, strength and balance. It was no coincidence that it was recognized as Brazil's national sport.
Throughout its history, capoeira has evolved from a marginalized form of combat to an academic discipline studied at universities in Brazil and around the world.
It is only natural that, with this journey, capoeira began to be considered for inclusion as an official Olympic sport. This process has been underway for some time, although it has not yet been successful.
However, we believe that it is only a matter of time before capoeira reaches the Olympic stage. Recognition as an Olympic sport is a natural step in its progression.
In view of past failed attempts to obtain Olympic recognition, the International Capoeira Federation (ICF) is renewing this effort, with the sole aim of achieving this long-awaited milestone.
Capoeira deserves this recognition. Its structural diversity — combining fighting, playing and dancing — makes it uniquely qualified.
We know that the road may be long and full of challenges, but this is to be expected. It is only a matter of time.