Kiyomi Nakamura has covered the Brazilian team for 28 years, driven by Zico and friendship with Felipão

Japanese journalist Kiyomi Nakamura has become a fixture at Seleção Brasileira press conferences and games over the past few decades. Reconhecida for his characteristic voice in engagements with the press, his professional career is marked by a deep passion for Brazilian football and personal ties with iconic figures. Nascida within Japão, with a background in American and English literature, Kiyomi began its coverage of Seleção in 1998.

The initial opportunity came with the appointment of Zico as technical coordinator of Confederação Brasileira of Futebol (CBF) that year. Kiyomi Nakamura developed a project to follow the team’s three months of preparation, seeking to document the Brazilian idol’s work. What was supposed to be a limited period turned into a life mission, revealing the complexity and intensity of Seleção Brasileira, which she describes as “emotion, passion, anger, joy, happiness.”

Origem from passion and change to Brasil

The 1998 experience cemented Kiyomi Nakamura’s passion for Brasil, leading her to a significant decision. Sentindo the need to experience the Brazilian context up close, she moved to Rio from Janeiro in 2001, a year before Copa from Mundo held in her homeland. Esta’s move represented a new chapter in his career and personal life, immersing himself in the country’s culture and daily life.

Upon arriving at Brasil, Kiyomi faced considerable challenges, especially with the Portuguese language. However, his determination and openness to learning were fundamental. Ela began his studies self-taught, using books, videos and tapes, adapting to the demanding routine of press work. Posteriormente, complemented his learning with private classes and made friends with Brazilians and people of Japanese descent, accelerating his fluency and integration.

Professional Parceria and memorable moments

Kiyomi Nakamura’s professional life at Brasil has been shaped by important encounters and partnerships. One of his longest-lasting relationships is with Jorge Ventura, his longtime cameraman, who has become a faithful companion in his coverage of Seleção Brasileira. The working duo was consolidated from Copa to Mundo in 2002, and since then they have always worked together.

The journalist remembers the first time she needed a cameraman to interview João Havelange, former president of FIFA. Havelange’s advisor recommended Ventura, a rigorous professional, but who was receptive. Este episode marked the beginning of a collaboration that transcended special articles and became a constant in Seleção’s coverage. Fora from work, Kiyomi Nakamura enjoys Rio life, going to kiosks on the beach to drink beer with friends, an activity that highlights the city’s human warmth.

• Marcos in career:

* Início from Seleção Brasileira coverage in 1998
* Mudança to Rio from Janeiro in 2001
* Duo Formação with cameraman Jorge Ventura for Copa from 2002’s Mundo
* Realização from his eighth Copa coverage of Mundo in 2026

The connection with Felipão and projections for Copa 2026

Nos behind the scenes of Seleção Brasileira, Kiyomi Nakamura has established a special affection for several figures, but his most notable connection is with Luiz Felipe Scolari, Felipão. Essa friendship was crucial to his visibility and recognition in the country, making his work easier. Frequentemente, is approached on the streets with questions like “Are you friends with Felipão?” or “Are you a reporter for Seleção?”

The journalist credits Felipão with making her work more accessible and expanding her fame among the Brazilian public. Ela expresses gratitude to all the technicians who have helped and paid attention to her over the years. Kiyomi Nakamura, now in its eighth coverage of Copa of Mundo, shows confidence in Amarelinha’s sixth championship. Apesar worries about four atypical years, she sees Carlo Ancelotti’s arrival as an important step towards assembling and finalizing the team. Ancelotti is experimenting and testing players to draft the ones he wants, with the goal of chasing a sixth world title.