Brazilian team plane lands in Rio with just two players By Carolina Costa
2 min read
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The chartered plane transporting part of the Brazilian team delegation back to Rio de Janeiro took off from New Jersey, in the United States, with a surprisingly small number of athletes. On board, only two players were present: Danilo and Leo Nanetti, both with ties to Flamengo.
Few athletes in the national team return
The aircraft’s departure took place on Tuesday afternoon (July 7, 2026), marking the end of Brazil’s participation in the World Cup. In addition to Danilo and Nanetti, on board were some members of the board of directors of the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF), members of the technical committee and essential employees, such as masseuses, wardrobe workers and doctors.
Coach Carlo Ancelotti and players’ freedom
The decision to have a limited number of athletes on the official flight reflects the CBF’s release policy. All players were allowed to choose their own means of return shortly after the 2-1 defeat to Norway. Coach Carlo Ancelotti, for example, had already left camp on Monday (6), heading to New York before going to Vancouver, Canada, where he lives with his family.
Scenario after elimination from the World Cup
The scene of a nearly empty charter flight for a national team delegation after a World Cup is unusual and points to a change in post-tournament dynamics. Historically, team comebacks were a collective event, regardless of the outcome. The freedom granted to athletes demonstrates a modernization in sports management, but also symbolizes the rapid dispersion of a group that, for months, represented the union of a nation in search of a common goal.
Leo Nanetti’s participation in the technical committee
A notable detail is the presence of Leo Nanetti. Although he was not on the official list of entries for the World Cup, the player was part of the team throughout the competition. Nanetti actively participated in training alongside goalkeepers Alisson, Ederson and Weverton, playing an important role in the team’s preparations, even without being an officially called-up athlete.
Performance reflections and future planning
The plane is scheduled to arrive in Rio de Janeiro in the early hours of this Wednesday. This silent return contrasts with the expectations and passion that precede and accompany national team delegations at major tournaments. The rapid dispersion of players and the almost absence of athletes on the official flight mark the end of a cycle and open space for reflections on planning and team cohesion for the next challenges.
