Why are Flamengo called the nation’s favourite? | OneFootball

Flamengo is the owner of the largest fan base in Brazilian and world football

Owner of the Largest Fan Base in the World, Flamengo has collected nicknames throughout its almost 130 years of history. Due to the strength of the Red-Black Nation, the Fla even received the nickname 'Most Beloved' due to a popular vote.

In summary, the nickname: 'Most Beloved' emerged in January 1928. At the time, in a disputed popular vote promoted by the Jornal do Brasil in partnership with Salutaris mineral water, Flamengo was the most voted. Currently, the Salutaris Cup is present in a prominent place in the club's museum.

Which teams competed with Flamengo?

It is important to note that in addition to Flamengo, other Carioca teams competed in the vote. They were: Vasco, America, Fluminense, São Cristóvão and Botafogo. In addition to two already extinct clubs: Villa Isabel and Modesto. With a total of 736,282 indications received, Flamengo totaled 254,850 votes against 183,742 from the São Januário club.

Does Flamengo have other nicknames?

Yes! In addition to Most Beloved, Flamengo has other Carioca nicknames. Among the most popular are: Mengo, Mengão, Queridão, Queridaço and Rubro-Negro. Finally, the fans also started playing with the nickname 'Malvadão'.

In short, the term 'Malvadão', associated with Flamengo, emerged from a combination of a Carioca funk and the popularization of the catchphrase by a sports narrator, with a playful and provocative tone. With that, the Red-Black fans adopted the term, using it in a light and fun way, often in a tone of 'affront' to rivals.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.