John Textor's statement after Botafogo's nomination for the Ballon d'Or

Having qualified for the quarterfinals of the Copa do Brasil after eliminating Red Bull Bragantino , Botafogo also gained prominence off the field. The club was nominated for the Club of the Year award by France Football magazine, a recognition granted during the Ballon d'Or ceremony. This achievement comes as the Rio de Janeiro team faces a turbulent situation behind the scenes, with impasses involving businessman John Textor and the Eagle Football group.

As head of the black-and-white Sociedade Anônima do Futebol (SAF), Textor continues to lead Botafogo's management despite disagreements with the conglomerate, as decided by the Deliberative Council. The American's support remains strong among fans, especially for his recent contribution to the club's institutional and sporting reconstruction.

John Textor, owner of Botafogo's SAF, will receive an astronomical amount (Photo: Vítor Silva/Botafogo)

The international nomination is based primarily on the club's strong performances in 2024. The impressive performance in the Copa Libertadores and the Brazilian Championship, in addition to the historic victory over Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup, were decisive in placing Botafogo alongside giants such as PSG, Chelsea, Barcelona, and Liverpool. The awards ceremony will take place in Paris on September 22.

John Textor's reaction to the recognition was a celebration on social media. The businessman highlighted the symbolic value of the club's presence among the nominees, a select group made up exclusively of Europeans—except for Botafogo.

"In Brazil, we are known as 'the Glorious' and 'the Most Traditional,' and now the world remembers who we are. Thank you for the honor bestowed upon us by the Ballon d'Or," the director wrote on his Instagram account.

Botafogo, in fact, had already gained international notoriety on other occasions. FIFA, for example, listed the club among the 12 greatest clubs of the 20th century, highlighting its tradition and historic achievements.

Meanwhile, the off-field situation remains under scrutiny. John Textor's position as manager of the club's assets has been the subject of questioning, including in the courts. Even so, the appointment brings relief and boosts morale for the club, which seeks to re-establish its presence among the top names in world football.