Wellington Silva earns Brazil amputee call-up with Santos | OneFootball

Santos amputee footballer Wellington Silva, 16, has earned his first call-up to Brazil's amputee football team.

According to Diario Do Peixe, he began at 13 with NUMEC, a third-sector organisation supporting people with disabilities in sport, which has partnered with Santos since 2026.

Raised in Santos, he lost a leg early after being born with a malformed tibia. He adapted by playing on crutches against non-disabled players, and discovering amputee football brought fresh hope and opportunity.

Encouraged by his father from a young age, he now celebrates a maiden selection. Within the national set-up he will compete alongside players of all ages.

Coach Leandro Almeida, known as Sergipe, said sport is a vehicle for inclusion and transformation that can help athletes through difficult periods, including depression. He cited Wellington's talent, discipline and effort, noting that those traits earned him recognition and underlined his suitability for the game.

Source: Diario Do Peixe