Amputee football makes continental breakthrough: Video
Amputee football reached a historic milestone in São Paulo on Saturday, February 7, as Brazilian club Ourinhos were crowned champions of the 2026 Amputee Football Copa Libertadores, defeating Esperia in the final of the continental tournament.
The competition, held over six days, brought together the leading amputee football clubs from across South America, with teams from Brazil, Argentina, Ecuador, Peru and Chile taking part.
The final showcased the growing level of the sport in the region, with Ourinhos building on a strong semi-final win over São Bento de Sorocaba to impose a disciplined and efficient game plan. Esperia, who had knocked out Argentina’s Rosario Central earlier in the tournament, defended resolutely but was eventually beaten as Ourinhos converted their opportunities.
Players and staff highlighted the broader significance of the victory, stressing the role of sport in rehabilitation and inclusion for athletes who have lost a limb through accidents or illness. The tournament also marked a wider landmark, establishing the Americas as the second continent after Europe to stage an international amputee football club competition, under the umbrella of the World Amputee Football Federation.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
