Fernando Gomes, a stalwart figure in Portuguese sports, is gearing up for a new challenge. At 73, he’s still bursting with energy and a passion for sports that has defined his life. With three successful terms as the president of the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) under his belt, he’s now setting his sights on the presidency of the Portuguese Olympic Committee (COP). In a recent interview, Gomes shared his vision, experiences, and goals, providing a glimpse into what drives this sports enthusiast.
When asked about his decision to run for the COP presidency, Gomes reflected on his extensive experience in sports management, which spans over five decades. He began his journey in the sports world at the age of 13, playing basketball, and later transitioned into sports management in 1992. His remarkable career has been marked by significant milestones, including his tenure as the president of the FPF, where he achieved great success, both financially and in terms of promoting Portuguese football globally. Gomes’ love for sports, particularly football, is undeniable, and he believes that his experience and network will be invaluable assets in his new role.
Gomes’ relationship with the COP began during his time at the FPF, where he worked closely with Professor José Manuel Constantino, the current president of the COP. He recalls the challenges they faced, particularly in terms of scheduling conflicts between national and international competitions, which often made it difficult for top players to participate in the Olympics. Despite these hurdles, Gomes remains committed to finding solutions and is eager to build on the legacy of Professor Constantino.
One of the pressing issues in Portuguese sports is the perception that other sports disciplines are overshadowed by football. Gomes acknowledges this concern, citing the lack of media coverage and recognition for achievements in other sports, such as athletics. He believes that there needs to be a more balanced approach to promoting and supporting different sports, ensuring that all disciplines receive the attention and resources they deserve.
As a seasoned sports administrator, Gomes has had the opportunity to work with various government officials, including former Prime Ministers Passos Coelho, António Costa, and Luís Montenegro. He values the relationships he has built and emphasizes the importance of collaboration between sports organizations and government entities. Gomes is committed to maintaining a neutral stance, avoiding partisanship, and focusing on the development of sports in Portugal.
Regarding his plans for the COP, Gomes prioritizes the athlete, ensuring that they receive adequate support, both financially and logistically. He also stresses the need for a more efficient system of financing, exploring alternative sources, such as private funding, to supplement public investment. The issue of mecenato desportivo (sports patronage) is also on his agenda, with the goal of creating a more favorable environment for companies to support sports initiatives.
In the midst of a complex political landscape, Gomes expressed concern about the potential impact on sports funding. The government had announced an additional 65 million euros for sports development, but the current political instability may jeopardize this allocation. Gomes remains cautiously optimistic, emphasizing the need for a concerted effort to secure funding and promote sports in Portugal.
As he prepares for the elections, Gomes has been actively engaging with various sports federations and entities, gathering support and feedback. He has also been in close contact with Rosa Mota, a renowned Portuguese athlete, who has been an invaluable source of guidance and encouragement. Gomes’ approach is characterized by a willingness to listen, collaborate, and build consensus, reflecting his commitment to the development of sports in Portugal.
When asked if he sees Portugal as a sports-loving country, Gomes acknowledges that there is still a long way to go. Despite the nation’s passion for sports, participation rates remain low compared to other European countries. He emphasizes the need for a multifaceted approach, involving various stakeholders, including the COP, sports federations, government agencies, and schools, to promote sports and uncover new talent. Gomes believes that with a well-planned strategy and concerted effort, Portugal can become a hub for sports development, providing opportunities for young athletes to thrive.
In his own words, “Planear é fundamental, mas não basta. É preciso planear e depois concretizar” (“Planning is essential, but it’s not enough. You need to plan and then execute”). With his wealth of experience, passion for sports, and commitment to collaboration, Fernando Gomes is poised to make a meaningful impact as the president of the Portuguese Olympic Committee.
