Main content

The woman in black

In 1971, women in Brazil were banned from taking part in organised football. Lea Campos took on one of the game's most powerful men for the right to be a referee.

In 1971, women in Brazil were banned from taking part in organised football. Lea Campos had spent most of her life being steered away from the game, but the fascination had never left her, and she began to wonder if she could get involved by becoming a referee. However, future Fifa president Joao Havelange was determined to maintain the status quo.

With this seemingly insurmountable obstacle in her path, Lea decided to appeal to one of the few men more powerful than Havelange: General Emilio Garrastazu Medici, Brazil's brutal military dictator. But would he be willing to listen?

Audio scenes have been re-created. Let us know what you think #AmazingSportStories

Release date:

Available now

12 minutes

Podcast