Brazil's national football team is called "Seleção Canarinho" because of the team's iconic yellow jersey, which resembles the vibrant plumage of the canary bird. The nickname "Canarinho" was coined in 1954, after the team changed its uniform from white to yellow, and it has since become an integral part of Brazilian football culture.
History of the Nickname
The origin of the "Canarinho" nickname dates back to 1950, when Brazil suffered a devastating defeat to Uruguay in the World Cup final, known as the "Maracanazzo". The team's traditional white uniform was seen as a symbol of bad luck, and a new uniform was needed to revitalize the team's image. In 1953, a national contest was held to design a new uniform, and the winning design featured a yellow jersey with green trim.
The Canary Connection
The canary bird's yellow plumage was the inspiration for the team's new uniform, and the nickname "Canarinho" was born. The canary is a small, energetic bird known for its beautiful singing voice, and its yellow feathers were seen as a symbol of joy, happiness, and national pride.
The "Canarinho" Mascot
In 2014, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) introduced an official mascot for the team, a cartoon canary named "Canarinho". The mascot has since become a beloved part of the team's brand, and is often featured in promotional materials and merchandise.
Sources
- Por que a Seleção Brasileira é chamada de Canarinho? A história da ave que virou símbolo do país
- Brazil national football team
- Apelido da Seleção Brasileira veio de ave de canto melódico e porte elegante | G1
- Canarinho: o mascote da Seleção Brasileira - Confederação Brasileira de Futebol
- canarinho - Wiktionary, the free dictionary