The woman in black
Lea Campos took on one of football's most powerful men for the right to referee
An episode of the Amazing Sport Stories podcast, hosted by BBC World Service, titled "The woman in black" was published on June 3, 2024 and runs 11 minutes.
June 3, 2024 ·11m · Amazing Sport Stories
Summary
In 1971, women in Brazil were banned from taking part in organised football. Lea Campos had spent most of her life being steered away from the game, but the fascination had never left her, and she began to wonder if she could get involved by becoming a referee. However, future Fifa president Joao Havelange was determined to maintain the status quo.With this seemingly insurmountable obstacle in her path, Lea decided to appeal to one of the few men more powerful than Havelange: General Emilio Garrastazu Medici, Brazil's brutal military dictator. But would he be willing to listen?Audio scenes have been re-created. Let us know what you think #AmazingSportStories
Episode Description
In 1971, women in Brazil were banned from taking part in organised football. Lea Campos had spent most of her life being steered away from the game, but the fascination had never left her, and she began to wonder if she could get involved by becoming a referee. However, future Fifa president Joao Havelange was determined to maintain the status quo.
With this seemingly insurmountable obstacle in her path, Lea decided to appeal to one of the few men more powerful than Havelange: General Emilio Garrastazu Medici, Brazil's brutal military dictator. But would he be willing to listen?
Audio scenes have been re-created. Let us know what you think #AmazingSportStories
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