Corinthians fans have rallied together to launch the "Vaquinha" fundraising campaign aimed at paying off their club's staggering debt of approximately R$ 710 million associated with the construction of the Neo Química Arena. Launched on November 27, 2023, just one month ago, this effort highlights the passionate commitment of supporters to their team during challenging financial times.
The campaign is organized by the principal supporters' group, Gaviões da Fiel, and has already garnered notable contributions from influential figures, including goalkeeper Cássio, who once played for the club and now competes at Cruzeiro, and popular TV presenter Serginho Groisman. With the goal set at R$ 710 million, the initial response has been promising. Achieving R$ 33 million raised, it marks roughly 4.8% of the overall target.
Donations can be made through the campaign's official website, ensuring transparency with real-time tracking of the total amount raised. An independent fiscal committee monitors the operation to guarantee the funds are securely held without any risk of mismanagement. "A comissão fiscal independente tem acompanhado a ação," ensuring integrity in the donation process.
During the first 18 hours after its launch, the campaign amassed over R$ 5 million, demonstrating immediate enthusiasm from the fanbase. Unfortunately, as days passed, the momentum slowed, causing the daily collections to drop. At their peak, donations soared to R$ 2 million per day, but currently average about R$ 1 million per day, signaling dwindling momentum.
Despite the decline, the organizers are proactive. They've connected with various ambassadors, including celebrities and former players, to help revive enthusiasm around the campaign. Notable names ranging from actresses to popular musicians are now on board, aiming to draw greater attention to the fundraising drive and sustain fan engagement.
Significantly, the campaign promotes multiple donation options for fans, with contributions starting from as low as R$ 10. Those who donate over R$ 100 have the opportunity to have their names displayed on a donor board installed at the NEo Química Arena—acknowledgment for their contributions. "Os torcedores que quiserem doar, poderão escolher entre as opções rápidas..." is one of the many ways to encourage fans to participate.
To date, São Paulo has emerged as the leading state for contributions, contributing about R$ 22 million, followed by Paraná with R$ 1.7 million, and Minas Gerais, which has donated R$ 1 million. Despite the challenges, the Gaviões dish out hopes to amplify these contributions as they approach 2025, aiming to reignite enthusiasm for their beloved club.
If the fundraising target is not achieved within the campaign's six-month window, which concludes on May 26, 2024, all collected funds will be used to renegotiate or amortize the debt with Caixa Econômica Federal. The donation process employs an escrow account, preventing any potential financial conflicts: "O modelo usado é uma conta escrow, ferramenta bancária que funciona como garantia..." assuring donors their contributions will be handled with utmost care.
While the fundraising campaign has made strides, it is evident more needs to be done to meet the set target. Together, supporters aim to demonstrate unwavering loyalty and determination to support Corinthians through this challenging financial chapter. Through their collective commitment, fans hope to eliminate the debt burden and secure the financial stability of their beloved club for many years to come.
