Ex-footballer Romario wants to become governor of Rio de Janeiro
What's the story
Former Brazilian legend Romario, who is currently a senator, is eyeing the post of the governor of Rio de Janeiro. The 52-year-old has announced his candidacy for centrist party Podemos. Romario was elected federal deputy in 2010 and senator in 2014. He wants to be at the helm of Rio de Janeiro and tackle issues such as bankruptcy and violence.
New territory
Romario's political bid
The ex-footballer has put tackling violence at the forefront of his campaign. Rio de Janeiro is in desperate need of a new voice with violence being rampant. The city is also crippled with bankruptcy. Romario said that change is needed at Rio and despite him not having the desired experience, he is willing to demonstrate all that he has learnt in his life.
Data
Romario: A legendary footballer
A natural poacher, Romario played 70 times for his national team Brazil and netted 55 goals. In a career spanning over several clubs that included Barcelona and PSV Eindhoven, Romario scored an emphatic 679 goals in 886 matches. His club-career spanned over 24 years.
Information
Other footballers in politics
There are several footballers who became politicians post retirement. Sol Campbell, Roman Pavlyuchenko, Zico, Lilian Thuram and Hakan Sukur are some of the former football players that switched their trades to politics.