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Romário

Romário de Souza Faria, known mononymously as Romário, is a Brazilian former professional footballer and politician born in Rio de Janeiro in 1966.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Romário de Souza Faria, known mononymously as Romário, is a Brazilian former professional footballer and politician born in Rio de Janeiro in 1966. He is widely regarded as one of football’s most prolific goalscorers and was a key member of Brazil’s 1994 FIFA World Cup-winning team. After retiring from football, he entered politics in Brazil. Romário's career is often cited in international soccer history and World Cup coverage, making him relevant to Canadian readers.

Early life and background

Romário was born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on 29 January 1966. He became known as a highly skilled striker from an early age and is described as one of Brazil’s most famous footballers.

Club career

Romário had a long club career in Brazil and Europe, including successful spells with Vasco da Gama, PSV Eindhoven, and FC Barcelona. He was widely noted for his finishing and scoring record, becoming one of the most prolific goal scorers in football history. He also played for Flamengo and Fluminense.

International career

Romário was a major figure for the Brazil National Football Team. His most prominent achievement was helping Brazil win the 1994 FIFA World Cup, where he was named the tournament's best player and received the Golden Ball.

Political career

After retiring from football, Romário entered politics in Brazil. He later served as a federal deputy and was elected to the Senate.

Key facts

  • Romário was born in Rio de Janeiro on 29 January 1966.
  • He became one of the most prolific goal scorers in football history.
  • He helped Brazil win the 1994 FIFA World Cup and received the tournament's Golden Ball.
  • He played for clubs including Vasco da Gama, PSV Eindhoven, Barcelona, Flamengo and Fluminense.
  • After his playing career, he moved into politics in Brazil.
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Canadian context

Romário is relevant to Canadian readers as a globally known football figure whose career is often cited in international soccer history and World Cup coverage.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Romário?
Romário de Souza Faria is a Brazilian former footballer and politician best known for his goal-scoring record and his role in Brazil's 1994 World Cup victory.
When was Romário born?
He was born on 29 January 1966 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
What position did Romário play?
He played as a forward, especially as a centre-forward.
What is Romário best known for in football?
He is best known as one of the most prolific scorers in football history and for winning the 1994 FIFA World Cup with Brazil.
What did Romário do after retiring from football?
He entered politics in Brazil and served in elected office.

References

  1. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/biography/Romario
    Supports: Birth date and place, identity as Brazilian footballer and politician, World Cup success, Golden Ball, and later political career.
  2. FootballHistory.org — https://www.footballhistory.org/player/romario.html
    Supports: Position, club and national-team scoring record, and career overview.
  3. CONMEBOL Copa América — https://copaamerica.com/en/news/romario-from-rio-de-janeiro-to-the-top-of-football
    Supports: Romário as a major scorer, World Cup winner, and two-time Copa América champion.
  4. EBSCO Research Starters — https://www.ebsco.com/research-starters/biography/romario
    Supports: Overview of his football career, clubs, World Cup role, and transition to politics.