Fotografando o Momento Mais Sombrio do Santos FC

Coming from a small city, against all the odds, Santos has become one of the most famous teams from Brazil. Santos came fifth overall and first in South America in a FIFA vote to find the club of the 20th century. Only Barcelona (4th), Bayern Munich (3rd), Manchester United (2nd) and Real Madrid finished above them.1In the recent years Santos had faced several problems in his administration, which led to financial crises and uncertain future. But in some way or another, Santos managed to stay in the Brazilian Championship division.

Being a Santos fan, I decided to go to Vila Belmiro for shooting supporters in the match-day against Fortaleza. It was also supposed to be the last game on the historical Urbano Caldeira stadium before the construction of a new modern arena. I wanted to capture this unique moment in the history of soccer in Brazil.

I packed my gear planning to take portraits and use off camera flash, but it was impossible to do so: the scenario was chaotic and unpredictable. I decided to focus on the moment and improvise using only the available light. Although not a press photographer, I found my way through a restricted area reserved to the media and the Torcida Jovem (“organized fans”). Suddenly my heart was beating fast with all the adrenaline rush in the middle of so many fanatics supporting Santos FC.

Honestly I can’t describe exactly howI felt and my decision making process in this personal work endeavour. All I know is that I tried my best to be in the moment and look for special moments and good light to capture the atmosphere of the event. It all happened so fast, everyone was together welcoming the bus arrival of Santos team outside the stadium before the match. It was beautiful, flags everywhere, fireworks — I even damaged my shoes at some point —, it was crazy.

Unfortunately it was a sad day, it was the day Santos FC, one of the biggest football clubs in Brazil, was relegated for the first time in its 111-years history. I can only hope Santos will be able to recover and come back being in first tier of the Brazilian game. Of course I’m still a proud Santos fan, and will still be even during these difficult times. I’m looking forward to have the opportunity to capture more important moments in the future.

Santos sempre Santos.

"What makes Santos fans truly special is their unconditional loyalty. Even during difficult seasons, when results on the pitch can fluctuate, the fans stay with the team. Moments of triumph are celebrated with an overwhelming passion, but it is in moments of defiance that their dedication becomes most evident. This unwavering spirit is what sets them apart and makes them a positive force in the football environment." — Santos Fans: the Loyalty of the Santistas