In 2024, Paris earned the prestigious title of the World Sports Capital as it hosted the 33rd edition of the Olympic Games. After years of anticipation and meticulous preparations, the City of Light dazzled audiences with an opening ceremony that broke tradition. Delegations from around the globe paraded on boats along the Seine River, marking a fresh approach to Olympic festivities. A highlight of the event was the arrival of the Olympic flame, symbolically represented by a 100% electric hot air balloon.
The Brazilian team, finishing 20th in the medal ranking, achieved notable success with a total of 20 medals. The country’s performance was particularly remarkable as it marked the first time that women outnumbered men in the Brazilian delegation. Their contributions were pivotal in earning three gold medals in Paris, thanks to athletes like Petre Souza in judo, Rebeca Andrade in artistic gymnastics, and beach volleyball pair Ana Patrícia and Duda.
The Games also celebrated the rise of global sports stars, including Simone Biles from the USA, judoka Teddy Riner from France, and Cuban wrestler Mijain Lopez. However, not all stories from the event were positive. Controversy erupted in women’s boxing when athletes Imani Kelifi from Algeria and Lining from Taiwan were accused of presenting male chromosomes during tests prior to competition. The International Olympic Committee dismissed any controversy, and both athletes ultimately took home gold medals in their respective weight classes.
In parallel, the Paralympic Games showcased an unprecedented performance from Brazil, which secured its best results ever. The nation reached the top 10 overall ranking, amassing 89 podium finishes, including 25 golds—a new record. China emerged as the overall champion in the Paralympics, followed by Great Britain and the USA.
The year in Brazilian football was tumultuous, following the swift dismissal of coach Fernando Diniz in January. The national team faced high expectations after an agreement had appeared in place for renowned coach Carlo Ancelotti, who ultimately renewed his contract with Real Madrid. As a result, Durival Júnior was appointed to lead Brazil’s campaign for the upcoming 2026 World Cup, although early qualifying performances fell short, and the team found itself in fifth place, lagging behind the leaders Argentina.
Argentina experienced success on the global stage, winning the Copa América in the United States after previously winning the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. However, this triumph was marred by a controversial incident where Argentine players were captured using racist chants during celebrations, highlighting persistent issues of racism and homophobia within football.
The Spanish league also faced similar challenges. Brazilian player Vinícius Júnior was repeatedly subjected to racial abuse both on and off the pitch, prompting legal actions against the offending fans. Other incidents included investigations into sexual assault involving former Chilean players and the arrest of Robinho in Brazil due to a conviction for rape in Italy.
Among the year’s other controversies was the Ballon d'Or award. Vinícius Júnior, a favorite for the title, ended up in second place, losing to Spanish player Rodri of Manchester City. Despite Júnior’s critical role in Real Madrid’s Champions League triumph, the significance of Rodri’s contributions to Spain’s Euro Cup victory seemed to sway the jurors' decision.
A Year of Remembrance
The sports world witnessed significant losses, including the passing of legendary football figures. Mário Jorge Lobos, a Brazilian icon, passed away at 92. The “Old Wolf” had secured four World Cup titles as a player, coach, and coordinator. Similarly, Franz Beckenbauer, regarded as Germany's greatest footballer, died at 78 after years away from public life due to health issues.
Amidst this sporting backdrop, unrest plagued the Libertadores semi-finals as Peñarol fans clashed violently in Rio de Janeiro, leading to the detention of over 250 Uruguayan extremists for vandalism. However, the finale brought joy to Brazilian club Botafogo, which secured an unprecedented title with a remarkable 3-1 victory over Atlético Mineiro.
Moreover, 2024 was a monumental year for Botafogo, marked by their success in both the Campeonato Brasileiro and the Libertadores, leading fans to dream of an even brighter 2025.
As the year came to a close, the sports community reflected on a rollercoaster of emotions, from glory and fame to controversy and loss, setting the stage for future challenges and triumphs. The return of the Intercontinental and the inaugural Super Mundial tournaments organized by FIFA promises an exciting future in the world of sports.
Part 1/9:
Paris 2024: A Historic Olympic Celebration
In 2024, Paris earned the prestigious title of the World Sports Capital as it hosted the 33rd edition of the Olympic Games. After years of anticipation and meticulous preparations, the City of Light dazzled audiences with an opening ceremony that broke tradition. Delegations from around the globe paraded on boats along the Seine River, marking a fresh approach to Olympic festivities. A highlight of the event was the arrival of the Olympic flame, symbolically represented by a 100% electric hot air balloon.
Part 2/9:
The Brazilian team, finishing 20th in the medal ranking, achieved notable success with a total of 20 medals. The country’s performance was particularly remarkable as it marked the first time that women outnumbered men in the Brazilian delegation. Their contributions were pivotal in earning three gold medals in Paris, thanks to athletes like Petre Souza in judo, Rebeca Andrade in artistic gymnastics, and beach volleyball pair Ana Patrícia and Duda.
Noteworthy Achievements and Controversies
Part 3/9:
The Games also celebrated the rise of global sports stars, including Simone Biles from the USA, judoka Teddy Riner from France, and Cuban wrestler Mijain Lopez. However, not all stories from the event were positive. Controversy erupted in women’s boxing when athletes Imani Kelifi from Algeria and Lining from Taiwan were accused of presenting male chromosomes during tests prior to competition. The International Olympic Committee dismissed any controversy, and both athletes ultimately took home gold medals in their respective weight classes.
Part 4/9:
In parallel, the Paralympic Games showcased an unprecedented performance from Brazil, which secured its best results ever. The nation reached the top 10 overall ranking, amassing 89 podium finishes, including 25 golds—a new record. China emerged as the overall champion in the Paralympics, followed by Great Britain and the USA.
Turmoil in Brazilian Football
Part 5/9:
The year in Brazilian football was tumultuous, following the swift dismissal of coach Fernando Diniz in January. The national team faced high expectations after an agreement had appeared in place for renowned coach Carlo Ancelotti, who ultimately renewed his contract with Real Madrid. As a result, Durival Júnior was appointed to lead Brazil’s campaign for the upcoming 2026 World Cup, although early qualifying performances fell short, and the team found itself in fifth place, lagging behind the leaders Argentina.
Part 6/9:
Argentina experienced success on the global stage, winning the Copa América in the United States after previously winning the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. However, this triumph was marred by a controversial incident where Argentine players were captured using racist chants during celebrations, highlighting persistent issues of racism and homophobia within football.
The Spanish league also faced similar challenges. Brazilian player Vinícius Júnior was repeatedly subjected to racial abuse both on and off the pitch, prompting legal actions against the offending fans. Other incidents included investigations into sexual assault involving former Chilean players and the arrest of Robinho in Brazil due to a conviction for rape in Italy.
The Ballon d'Or Dispute
Part 7/9:
Among the year’s other controversies was the Ballon d'Or award. Vinícius Júnior, a favorite for the title, ended up in second place, losing to Spanish player Rodri of Manchester City. Despite Júnior’s critical role in Real Madrid’s Champions League triumph, the significance of Rodri’s contributions to Spain’s Euro Cup victory seemed to sway the jurors' decision.
A Year of Remembrance
The sports world witnessed significant losses, including the passing of legendary football figures. Mário Jorge Lobos, a Brazilian icon, passed away at 92. The “Old Wolf” had secured four World Cup titles as a player, coach, and coordinator. Similarly, Franz Beckenbauer, regarded as Germany's greatest footballer, died at 78 after years away from public life due to health issues.
Part 8/9:
Unrest During Club Competitions
Amidst this sporting backdrop, unrest plagued the Libertadores semi-finals as Peñarol fans clashed violently in Rio de Janeiro, leading to the detention of over 250 Uruguayan extremists for vandalism. However, the finale brought joy to Brazilian club Botafogo, which secured an unprecedented title with a remarkable 3-1 victory over Atlético Mineiro.
Moreover, 2024 was a monumental year for Botafogo, marked by their success in both the Campeonato Brasileiro and the Libertadores, leading fans to dream of an even brighter 2025.
Part 9/9:
As the year came to a close, the sports community reflected on a rollercoaster of emotions, from glory and fame to controversy and loss, setting the stage for future challenges and triumphs. The return of the Intercontinental and the inaugural Super Mundial tournaments organized by FIFA promises an exciting future in the world of sports.