Flamengo athletes honored at COB awards ceremony

Flamengo had prominent names at the Brazilian Olympic Committee ceremony, held this Thursday (11), which recognized the best athletes in each sport in 2025. Among the awardees were Flávia Saraiva (artistic gymnastics), Gabi Regly (artistic swimming), Beatriz Tavares (rowing), David Faria (beach rowing) and Gabriel Assunção (canoe sprint).

Gabi Regly celebrated the recognition: “My second award at the Brazilian Olympics is always very special, always a new feeling. It's like a movie playing in my head about everything we've been through to get here. It's not easy being here—there are so many athletes competing together. And we have a saying: none of us is as good as all of us together. So this trophy is mine and it's my team's. I owe a lot to them and to my coaches. Thank you so much to everyone who participated with us this year.”

In rowing, Beatriz Tavares was also among those honored for her performance this season. The Flamengo athlete highlighted the collective work in the evolution of the sport at the club:

“It’s always an honor. The first award I won was in 2022, and now I had the pleasure of winning again. It’s the culmination of a very cool year, and this recognition makes everything even more special. I’m very happy. Now it’s time to celebrate, enjoy my family, and continue training, because next year’s season has already begun.”

Beach rowing also brought Flamengo to the awards stage, with David Faria being elected the best in the sport. For him, the award reinforces his commitment to the challenges of 2025.

“It’s a very emotional and rewarding experience to have this recognition for all the work done — not just by me, but by everyone behind me who helps me: the club, the committee, the professionals, friends, and training partners. Everyone is very important. This award is for everyone, not just me.” 

The evening also marked the first awarding of the Vanderlei Cordeiro de Lima Medal, created to recognize gestures of Olympic spirit, ethics, and humanity in sports. The honor was given to the Four Without Oars team that competed in the Junior Pan American Games in Asunción and finished the race even after losing one of their oars, securing the bronze medal.

Among the boat's occupants were Flamengo players Kayki Rocha and Miguel Marques. Kayki recalled the event: “For me, it's a unique emotion, a dream come true. To be honored and to see great Olympic athletes here... I am very happy and grateful.”

Miguel also commented on the experience: “Very cool. A new experience, it was great to be here today. I took the opportunity to exchange ideas with some medalists.”