New Liga Esportiva de Futebol da Baixada Santista Launches at Museu Pelé to Revitalize Local Football

The Museu Pelé in Santos hosted the launch of the Liga Esportiva de Futebol da Baixada Santista, popularly known as the 'Liga da Várzea,' on August 20, 2026, at 6 PM. This new football league, led by president Cristiano Troisi, aims to revitalize and strengthen the local football scene by bringing together 16 teams including traditional clubs such as Unidos da Penha, Juventude de Nova Cintra, Dale Capela, and Santa Luzia.

The event also introduced the Copa Blue Med – Troféu Clodoaldo Tavares Santana, a new tournament designed to energize local competition. The Secretary of Sports, Rogério Sampaio, presented diplomas to all affiliated teams to recognize their participation and contribution to the initiative. Sampaio highlighted the event's importance, saying, "It will be an important event because it involves the history of várzea football in Santos. It is a renewal, with the initiative to have a championship and to energize the sport."

Esteemed former players from the local várzea football scene, including Clodoaldo, Negreiros, and Gilberto Costa, attended the event. Additionally, Jair Siqueira, a local sports historian, showcased his collection of historical photos and announced a new book on the history of football in Santos. Santos earned the title of the most sports-oriented city in Brazil during the 1950s, thanks to its vibrant and extensive várzea football community that included over 150 football fields across many neighborhoods.

This league launch aims to strengthen community ties and promote health through sport, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3, which focuses on ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all.