Corinthians idol honoured with award at São Paulo City Council ceremony

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Central do Timão

·10 Oktober 2025

Corinthians idol honoured with award at São Paulo City Council ceremony

By Larissa Beppler | Central do Timão Editorial Team

On the evening of last Thursday (9), Wladimir Rodrigues dos Santos, idol and the player who wore the Corinthians jersey the most times, was honored in the 1º de Maio Plenary of the São Paulo City Council with the ABIME Health Award. The ceremony, presided over by councilwoman Edir Sales (PSD), recognized his career in sports and his contribution to the well-being of the population.

The ABIME Health and Sports Award was created to honor doctors, researchers, managers, journalists, and athletes who, through their activities, promote quality of life and health in society. On his social media, Wladimir celebrated the award:

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Wladimir (center) with his family during the ceremony at the São Paulo City Council. Photo: Reproduction

“The greatest pride in life is receiving an award with my family and knowing that I was able to contribute to the development of sports and education, in my lifetime. Thank you.”

Coming up through Corinthians’ youth system, Wladimir began to draw attention in 1972 during a club tour of Europe, establishing himself in the first team only in 1973. Over his career, he took part in historic moments for the club, such as the 1977 São Paulo State Championship title – remembered for the iconic play in which his header was saved on the goal line by Ponte Preta’s defender –, the 1979 São Paulo State Championship, and the back-to-back championships in 1982 and 1983.

Alongside Sócrates and Casagrande, Wladimir was also one of the pillars of the Corinthians Democracy movement, which turned the club into a symbol of participation, freedom, and citizenship during the final period of the military dictatorship in Brazil. Recognized for his grit, leadership, skill, and dedication, Wladimir played a total of 806 matches wearing the black-and-white jersey, including 268 games in the Brazilian Championship, an absolute record in the club’s history.

After ending his playing career, he worked in administrative and political roles. In 2009, he accepted the invitation to become Secretary of Sports of São Sebastião (SP), a position he held for four years. Later, he took over the management of the Pacaembu Complex, contributing to the administration and promotion of sports in the city.

The honorary diploma awarded to Wladimir highlights his contribution to sports and exalts the legacy of one of Corinthians’ greatest idols, whose journey on and off the field continues to inspire fans and athletes throughout the country.