Benfica legend António Simões stepped forward this week. He made his support for Martim Borges Coutinho Mayer very clear. Mayer officially launched his bid for Benfica’s presidency on Wednesday at the Capitólio. Simões’s backing carries significant weight for the club faithful.
Simões, a former Portugal international, spoke with immense pride. He admitted it was hard to put his feelings into words. “He has the right plan and the right people,” Simões stated about Mayer. “So please, go forward.” Simões emphasized that his support goes beyond just a vote. He holds deep sympathy and respect for Mayer and his family.
The former Benfica star also used the moment to speak to all the candidates. He urged them to avoid rivalry. Simões believes no candidate should see others as enemies. Instead, they should view each other as partners. The club already faces many outside opponents, he explained. There is no need to create more within.
This unity must be the core feeling, Simões stressed. Benfica must always come first. The club is more important than any single person. He described Benfica as a feeling that lives inside everyone connected to it. It’s far more than just a choice; it’s an emotion.
As Mayer’s campaign representative, Simões also sent a strong message to the club’s members. He asked them to choose freely. Simões was clear he wasn’t there to beg for votes. He wasn’t trying to sell or trick anyone. He vouches for Martim and his team personally.
Simões made a public commitment based on his knowledge of them. He assured everyone that Mayer’s group is skilled and honest. Most importantly, he said they have true passion for Benfica.