Former Brazil football captain Dunga was honored with the inauguration of his statue on Friday, September 20, 2023, in his hometown of Ijuí, located in the northwest region of Rio Grande do Sul. The event took place at Espaço Capitão Dunga, near the municipal government buildings, where Dunga's legacy as one of Brazil's football icons was officially commemorated.
The impressive statue stands at 3 meters tall and depicts Dunga lifting the coveted World Cup trophy, recreacting the historic moment from July 17, 1994, when Brazil achieved its fourth World Cup title. This artistic tribute captures the essence of Dunga's achievement, marking both his contributions as a player and his enduring significance to Brazilian football.
Created by renowned artists Iouri Petrov and André Ajambuja, the statue weighs approximately 230 kilograms and has become more than just a piece of art; it symbolizes the pride of the local community and the heritage of Brazilian football. Nearby, the Espaço Capitão Dunga has been enhanced with additional seating and informational displays, ensuring Dunga's story and accomplishments resonate with visitors.
Dunga, whose full name is Carlos Caetano Bledorn Verri, has deep connections to Ijuí, where he began his football career before moving on to play for clubs such as Internacional, several teams across Europe, and eventually returning to manage the Brazilian national team. His career spanned several notable moments, including not just his victory as captain at the World Cup but also overseeing challenges and triumphs as head coach.
The momentous occasion attracted hundreds of local residents who gathered at Praça da República, eager to witness the ceremony honoring one of Ijuí's most celebrated figures. Present at the statue's inauguration were Mayor Andrei Cossetin, local council members, military officials, and community representatives, underscoring the significance of Dunga’s contributions both on and off the pitch.
Beyond football, Dunga is actively involved with his social project, Seleção do Bem, which is dedicated to assisting vulnerable populations, particularly following the devastating floods experienced by the region earlier this year. Since May 2023, the project has provided relief by donating over 100 homes to families affected by the severe flooding. Recently, the project announced plans for another 100 housing donations, showcasing Dunga's commitment to giving back to the community.
The statue serves as not only a tribute to Dunga's achievements but also as a reminder of the role he plays in uplifting those around him through charitable efforts. It stands as both a physical representation of victory and a beacon of hope for the future.
Local residents expressed their pride and admiration for Dunga, who is respected not just for his athletic prowess but also for his humanitarian work. The ceremony emphasized the strong bonds within Ijuí and the lasting legacy of its celebrated players, fostering community pride and inspiring future generations of athletes.
