With a vision for change and progress, Agberto Guimaraes and Fabiana Murer, candidates for the presidency of the Brazilian Athletics Confederation (CBAt), present a strong and forward-thinking alternative to lead the transformation of athletics in Brazil. Both, with outstanding careers in athletics and sports management, propose a comprehensive plan called ‘Athletics 360’, which promises to modernize the sport’s structure and strengthen talent development, culminating in track success and Olympic medals. The elections, scheduled for March 2025, highlight their joint candidacy—representing both male and female perspectives—as a reflection of what today’s sports and society demand. SportsIn had the opportunity to speak with them to learn firsthand about their concerns and their vision to give Brazilian athletics the boost it needs.
“We are committed to a model that connects all regions of this diverse country, understanding the specific needs of each one and ensuring no athlete is left behind. It’s essential to work hand-in-hand with local authorities to create a network that promotes the sport from the grassroots,” they emphasize as their starting point. Designing a ‘customized’ strategy with each municipal sports department aims to bring athletics to every corner of the country, demonstrating their intent to democratize the CBAt to the smallest detail.
THE FIRST STEPS: TRANSPARENCY AND LISTENING
“To achieve this, the first thing we need to do is understand the financial resources available to implement all the reforms. We will overhaul the management—bringing in a new team aligned with our ideas—and start working from there,” says Guimaraes. Meanwhile, Murer emphasizes that listening to stakeholders is just as important: “We need to listen to people, to athletes, coaches, and federations, to understand the current situation, their needs, and then organize the federation to support them.”
Both candidates highlight open communication as the cornerstone of their approach. On their first day in office, they plan to establish dialogue channels with federations, coaches, athletes, and clubs. “We want to hear their concerns and suggestions because only by understanding their real needs can we create effective solutions,” explains Guimaraes. This will be achieved through the broad perspective offered by having both male and female leadership, combining extensive experience in sports management and athletics competition.
EMPOWERING ATHLETES THROUGH COLLABORATION
In addition to listening, the duo plans to implement the ‘Athletes for Athletes Management’ program, an initiative aimed at placing athletes at the center of decision-making. According to Murer, a three-time Olympian and world champion in pole vault, “Athletes know better than anyone the challenges and needs of the sport, and their voice must guide every step we take.”
Another critical aspect of their proposal is strengthening infrastructure to enable success at the international level. “We possess an abundance of talent; however, we currently do not have a structured program to facilitate the transfer of knowledge from seasoned coaches to emerging ones. By implementing such a program, we can cultivate a greater number of experienced coaches, ultimately fostering the development of athletics in Brazil,” Murer explains. They aim to establish partnerships with international federations to allow Brazilian coaches and athletes to gain experience abroad. “Exchanging knowledge and competing outside Brazil are essential for our athletes to grow and adapt to the international level,” adds Guimaraes.
BUILDING A GLOBAL PRESENCE
“Our athletes need to be in constant contact with the best in the world to keep improving,” they argue, emphasizing that one of their international goals is to position Brazilian athletics as a benchmark. They plan to promote high-level events in Brazil while ensuring active participation in international competitions.
Guimaraes notes that this approach will not only benefit athletes but also enhance Brazilian athletics’ global image, attracting sponsors and new opportunities. “This isn’t just about solving immediate problems; we must lay the groundwork for a brilliant and competitive future for athletics in Brazil,” he asserts.
A TRANSPARENT AND PARTICIPATORY FEDERATION
Guimaraes and Murer envision a CBAt transformed into a model of transparency and collaboration by the end of their term. They agree that proximity and transparency will be the pillars of their management, prioritizing clarity in resource management and decision-making. “The trust of the athletics community is built through actions, not just words,” Guimaraes emphasizes.
The candidates aim to leave a legacy defined by inclusion and comprehensive support for everyone involved in Brazilian athletics. “We want every athlete, coach, and federation to feel they have the tools needed to reach their full potential,” adds Murer. Furthermore, they hope to leave behind “a CBAt that is more sustainable and connected to the international community.”
With elections scheduled for March 2025, Guimaraes and Murer represent a unique opportunity to modernize Brazilian athletics and elevate it to new heights. “It’s time to work together and show the world what Brazilian athletics is capable of achieving,” they conclude.
