Formiga Appointed Director of Women's Football Policies at Brazil's Ministry of Sports

Miraildes Maciel Mota, popularly known as Formiga, has been named the new Director of Football Policies and Promotion of Women's Football at Brazil's Ministry of Sports, marking a major step in her post-playing career. The official announcement of her appointment was made on October 20, placing her within the National Secretariat of Football and Defense of the Rights of the Fan.

This role sees Formiga replace Marileia dos Santos, who held the position since 2024. Formerly a celebrated midfielder for the Brazilian women's national football team and an Olympic medalist, Formiga's transition from athlete to policymaker highlights her continued dedication to the development of women's football in Brazil.

Prior to this federal appointment, Formiga served as the deputy secretary of Sports and Youth in Cotia, São Paulo, giving her valuable experience in sports governance at the municipal level. Her new responsibilities include overseeing policies that foster the growth and promotion of women's football throughout the country.

The Ministry of Sports' decision to appoint a figure of Formiga's stature reflects a strategic move to integrate experienced athletes into key governmental roles to better shape sports policies. Her extensive background and respected profile provide her with unique insights into the needs and challenges of women's football in Brazil.

This significant development not only recognizes Formiga's exemplary career on the field but also entrusts her with an influential position to advocate for and elevate women's football at the national level, signaling promising advancements for the sport under her leadership.