Evidência e especulação: “A origem” do futebol no Rio De Janeiro (1898-1902)

Abstract

For decades, there have been discussions about the “origin” of football in Brazil. Often marked by identity disputes and celebratory inclinations, such discussions indicate the strong social presence of that sport. This article discusses some evidence of football experiences that took place in Rio de Janeiro between 1898 and 1902. Newspapers and magazines published in the city were used as sources, especially The Rio News. To interpret the material, suggestions of Luca (2005) were taken into account, considering what was published as representations related to writers’ and/or publications’ profile. By questioning the basis of some statements about the early days of football in Rio de Janeiro, we infer that, between 1898 and 1902, the first matches were held in different spheres, a pioneer calendar was structured, and a field started to emerge that would quickly be established.