The air around Benfica feels charged these days, not just with the usual passion, but with the weight of an upcoming choice. On October 25th, members will pick their next president. Now, a true club legend has stepped forward, adding significant backing to one candidate.
Carlos Seixas, a name forever etched in Benfica’s basketball history, announced his support for João Noronha Lopes this Wednesday. Seixas wore the eagle proudly throughout the 1990s. He helped the club win many national titles. Fans still remember his incredible 27-point performance against CSKA in 1995. Benfica won that Champions League game 102-80, a score that echoed through Europe.
Seixas, now 53, speaks from a deep connection to the club. “Benfica is about passion,” he said. “It means upholding our values and believing we are stronger when united.” He wants a Benfica that puts the club “Above All” personal interests. “That is why I join this movement for change,” he explained. “I support João Noronha Lopes. I believe he has the vision, the courage, and the seriousness our club truly needs.” Seixas stressed that Benfica belongs to its members, to every sport, and to every generation. “Let’s move forward,” he urged, “Benfica Above All.” Even after his playing career ended, Seixas stayed close, working within the technical staff. He served as an assistant coach for the main team from 2016 to 2020.
João Noronha Lopes quickly expressed his gratitude for this important endorsement. He called Carlos Seixas an unmistakable legend in Sport Lisboa e Benfica basketball. “He was part of that mythical 90s generation,” Noronha Lopes noted. “That group truly shaped the sport’s history at our club.” Seixas helped win two National Championships, three Portuguese Cups, three League Cups, and four Super Cups. “His support is vital,” the candidate added. “It strengthens my confidence in building a Benfica for the future. Our former athletes are the figures who wrote our history, and Carlos was a key player and coach. Thank you, Carlos!”