Porto supporters in Caracas mark 26th anniversary as gatherings grow harder | OneFootball

According to O Jogo, dozens of Porto supporters gathered in Los Dos Caminos, eastern Caracas, on Wednesday to mark the 26th anniversary of the Casa do Porto da Venezuela, Filial 43.

In blue and white surroundings, founders Alvarinho Moreira, Camilo Oliveira, Joaquim Rocha and Manuel Oliveira were honoured. Younger Luso-descendants were urged to preserve their parents’ legacy.

Moreira recalled deciding in 1994 to establish the club’s official presence in the country and to place its emblem on the façade. He said they formed a non-profit to keep traditions alive and instil pride in their children, trusting Portuguese roots would open doors worldwide.

He added the venture proved worthwhile and remains a reference point in the Portuguese community. The opening was set for 1 May because Our Lady of Fátima is their patroness and guide in adversity.

He noted an ageing diaspora and younger generations leaving in search of better prospects. Many supporters have died or returned to Portugal, making gatherings harder by the day.

Two peaks followed, led by club president Pinto da Costa’s visit on 20 July 2013, which drew more than 1,000 to the Centro Português. The next year, in the Presidential Box at Estádio do Dragão, Portugal’s then representative in Caracas, Mário Alberto Lino da Silva, likened the Casa do Porto to a second Portuguese embassy in Venezuela, in Pinto da Costa’s presence.

Source: O Jogo