A Sunday afternoon in Castro Marim felt different. The Algarve Football and Futsal Festival was celebrating its 15th year. This yearly event, put on by the Algarve Football Association, moved to Castro Marim for the very first time. And it brought a special kind of homecoming.
Reinaldo Teixeira, who leads Liga Portugal, the country’s top professional football league, was there. He wasn’t just attending; he was being honored. Teixeira received an Honorable Mention, a special nod from his home region. This honor felt extra special because of his journey.
Teixeira grew up in Salir, a small town near Loulé in the Algarve. He’s made history in the sport. He is the first person from the Algarve region to ever become president of Liga Portugal. This award was a public celebration of that important fact.
“I feel deeply honored and very responsible,” Teixeira shared. He added that the recognition wasn’t just for him. “It truly touches me,” he said, “not only for my own path, but for what it means to the Algarve and everyone living here.” The ceremony itself highlighted hard work, dedication, and the growth of sports in the area. It was a day to cheer for local talent reaching national heights.