Brazil in Los Angeles 2028: The Athletes Who Could Make History 🇧🇷🏅
Brazil has an Olympic tradition stretching from Aurélio Miguel in Seoul 1988 to Rebeca Andrade in Paris 2024. But Los Angeles 2028 could be the most successful Olympics in Brazilian history — if everything goes according to plan.
With a mix of seasoned veterans and young rising stars, the country enters the 2026-2028 Olympic cycle with real podium contenders in at least 15 different sports. Let's take an in-depth look at each of them.
🥇 The Gold Favorites
Rebeca Andrade — Artistic Gymnastics
Brazil's greatest Olympic medalist arrives in Los Angeles as the absolute favorite to extend her historic record.
| Achievement | Year |
|---|---|
| 🥈 Tokyo — Floor Exercise | 2021 |
| 🥇 Tokyo — Vault | 2021 |
| 🥇 Paris — Floor Exercise | 2024 |
| 🥈 Paris — All-Around | 2024 |
| 🥉 Paris — Vault | 2024 |
| 🥇 Paris — Team | 2024 |
Why she's the favorite: Rebeca has 6 Olympic medals — a Brazilian record. At 29 years old in 2028, she'll be at the peak of her technical maturity. Her main rival will be American Simone Biles, but the Brazilian has already proven she can beat the legend.
Challenges: A gymnast's body accumulates injuries over the years. Physical preparation for LA28 will be crucial.
Júlia Soares, just 19 years old, is the natural heir. Precocious and talented, she could form the Brazilian duo that dominates LA28.
Rayssa Leal — Street Skateboarding
The greatest Street League Skateboarding (SLS) champion and medalist at two consecutive Olympics.
| Achievement | Year |
|---|---|
| 🥈 Tokyo — Street | 2021 (at just 13!) |
| 🥉 Paris — Street | 2024 |
| 🏆 Multiple SLS titles | 2023-2026 |
Why she's the favorite: Rayssa is the dominant force in women's street skateboarding worldwide. She first became known through a fairy costume video in 2015, and has since become Brazil's greatest skateboarder. At 18 in 2028, she'll be at the peak of her career.
Augusto Akio (park skateboarding) is also a strong contender: bronze medalist in Paris, technically skilled and creative.
Ana Patrícia and Duda — Beach Volleyball
Olympic champions in Paris 2024 — the duo that brought gold back to Brazil in beach volleyball.
Why they're favorites: They dominated the world circuit in 2023-2024. The duo's chemistry is extraordinary, with Ana Patrícia at the net blocking and Duda on defense and attack. The Olympic experience from Paris makes them natural favorites for LA28.
Hugo Calderano — Table Tennis
World number 3 — the best table tennis player in the history of the Americas.
Why he's the favorite: Hugo won the Table Tennis World Cup — an unprecedented feat for non-Asian athletes at this level. His powerful and technical game has placed him among the world's top 3 for years.
Challenge: Defeating Chinese players in the final stages remains the biggest obstacle. But Hugo has already proven he can do it.
Bia Souza — Judo (+78kg)
Gold medalist in Paris 2024 in the women's heavyweight category.
Why she's the favorite: Bia is a force of nature in judo. Technical, powerful, and with Olympic experience. Brazil has a strong judo tradition, and Bia leads an exceptionally talented generation.
🥈 Strong Podium Contenders
Alison dos Santos (Piu) — 400m Hurdles
Bronze medalist in Tokyo and South American record holder. Piu is one of the great stars of Brazilian track and field, combining explosive speed with refined hurdle technique. At 28 in 2028, he'll be at the ideal age.
Marcus D'Almeida — Archery
World championship runner-up and one of the best archers on the planet. Marcus has real gold potential at LA28, with championship-level technique and mentality.
Mafê Costa — Swimming
The greatest promise in Brazilian swimming. Mafê has been consistently improving her times and could become the first Brazilian woman to medal individually in Olympic swimming in decades.
Caio Bonfim — Race Walking
Silver medalist in Paris 2024. Caio is consistently performing at the highest level and arrives at LA28 as one of the favorites in the discipline. His refined technique and mental resilience place him among the world's top three race walkers. Race walking is one of the most demanding events in track and field — covering 20km or 50km at a pace many runners couldn't maintain. Caio masters the technique like few others, maintaining perfect form even in the final kilometers when the body begs to stop.
Isaquias Queiroz — Canoeing
The greatest canoeist in Brazilian history and one of the greatest in the world. Isaquias has accumulated 4 Olympic medals (gold in Tokyo in the C1 1000m, silver and bronze in Rio 2016). At 34 in 2028, this will likely be his final Olympics — and the motivation to end his career on top is enormous. His technical mastery in the individual canoe is unmatched in the Americas.
Beatriz Ferreira — Boxing
Silver medalist in Tokyo 2021 and bronze in Paris 2024 in the lightweight category. Bia is one of the most technical boxers in the world, with exceptional footwork and quick combinations. The experience of two Olympics makes her a very strong gold contender at LA28.
Gabriel Medina — Surfing
Three-time WSL world champion and bronze medalist in Paris 2024 with that iconic aerial that went viral worldwide. Medina is the most talented surfer Brazil has ever produced. At 34 in 2028, experience could compensate for any loss of explosiveness. Surfing at LA28 will be held in Teahupo'o (Tahiti) again — a heavy wave that favors technical and courageous surfers like Medina.
Filipe Toledo — Surfing
Two-time WSL world champion, Filipinho has an aerial and progressive surfing style that could earn a medal. His decision to compete at LA28 will depend on physical and mental fitness, but when he's at his peak, he's virtually unbeatable in small to medium waves.
🌟 The Dark Horses and Rising Stars
Sophia Medina — Surfing
The youngest Medina on the world circuit. At 20 in 2028, Sophia could inherit her brother Gabriel Medina's legacy on the Olympic waves. Her surfing is powerful and progressive, with aerial maneuvers reminiscent of her older brother. The pressure of carrying the Medina surname is enormous, but Sophia has shown impressive maturity for her age.
Renan Gallina — Track and Field (200m)
At just 20 years old, Renan is the great hope of Brazilian sprinting. Impressive times at the junior level make him an athlete to watch. Brazil has never had a competitive sprinter in Olympic 200m finals — Renan could be the first. His build and running technique are reminiscent of the great Caribbean sprinters.
João Fonseca — Tennis
A prodigy of Brazilian tennis, João has the potential to compete for a medal. At 21 in 2028, he'll be in the ascending phase of his career. His aggressive baseline game and powerful serve make him a feared opponent on the ATP circuit. Olympic tennis uses a direct elimination format, which favors players with a strong mentality — and João has plenty of that.
Maria Eduarda Alexandre — Track and Field
A rising sprinter who could surprise at LA28. Her times in the 100m and 200m have been consistently improving, and experience in international youth competitions prepares her for the Olympic stage.
Gio and Isa Haas Sisters — Women's Football
The twins are standouts in Brazilian women's football and should be on the LA28 squad. Brazilian women's football is going through a period of renewal, and the Haas sisters represent the new generation that combines Brazilian technique with modern physical intensity.
Darlan Romani — Shot Put
South American record holder and Olympic finalist in Tokyo and Paris. Darlan is the greatest shot putter in Brazilian history and competes on equal terms with the world's best. At 36 in 2028, experience will be his greatest weapon.
📊 Brazilian Judo: A World Power
Judo deserves a separate analysis. Brazil has 9 athletes among the top 15 in the IJF Olympic ranking — an absolute powerhouse in the sport.
| Athlete | Category | IJF Ranking | Chance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bia Souza | +78kg | Top 5 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Willian Lima | -66kg | Top 10 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Larissa Pimenta | -52kg | Top 8 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Guilherme Schimidt | -81kg | Top 12 | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Daniel Cargnin | -73kg | Top 10 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Rafaela Silva | -57kg | Top 15 | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Michel Augusto | -60kg | 9th | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Leonardo Gonçalves | -90kg | Top 15 | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Rafael Macedo | -90kg | Top 15 | ⭐⭐⭐ |
The qualification cycle works through world rankings: athletes need to accumulate points from their 6 best results in official events during 2026-2027.
🎯 The Qualification Process
Each sport has different criteria for LA28:
| Sport | Main Criteria | Decisive Period |
|---|---|---|
| Judo | IJF Ranking | 2026-2027 |
| Shooting | Top 3 at Worlds | 2026 and 2027 |
| Swimming | Technical standards | 2027-2028 |
| Track and Field | World Rankings + standards | 2027-2028 |
| Surfing | ISA Ranking + WSL | Under debate |
| Gymnastics | World Championships | 2026-2027 |
| Skateboarding | World Ranking | 2027-2028 |
| Beach Volleyball | FIVB Ranking | 2027-2028 |
Important: The first year of the cycle (2026) is decisive for identifying and developing talent. Competitions this year already count toward qualification points.
🆕 New Sports at LA 2028: Opportunities for Brazil
Los Angeles 2028 will feature five new sports on the Olympic program — and Brazil has real chances in some of them:
| Sport | Status | Brazil's Chance |
|---|---|---|
| Flag Football | New | ⭐⭐ — USA favorites, but Brazil is growing |
| Squash | New | ⭐ — Sport still developing |
| Lacrosse | Returns (1908) | ⭐ — Little tradition |
| Baseball/Softball | Returns | ⭐⭐ — Women's softball has potential |
| Cricket | Returns (1900) | ⭐ — No tradition |
Flag football is the big novelty. The NFL invested heavily to include the sport, and Brazil has a growing league. Not a favorite, but participation alone would be historic.
📈 Brazil at the Olympics: Historical Evolution
| Olympics | Golds | Total Medals | Overall Position |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barcelona 1992 | 2 | 3 | 25th |
| Atlanta 1996 | 3 | 15 | 15th |
| Athens 2004 | 5 | 10 | 16th |
| Beijing 2008 | 3 | 15 | 23rd |
| London 2012 | 3 | 17 | 22nd |
| Rio 2016 | 7 | 19 | 13th |
| Tokyo 2021 | 7 | 21 | 12th |
| Paris 2024 | 3 | 20 | 20th |
| LA 2028 | ? | ? | Goal: Top 10 |
Brazil needs to surpass the 7-gold mark (matched in Rio and Tokyo) to break into the top 10 of the overall medal table. With the current generation, it's possible — but it requires flawless preparation.
🏋️ COB Investment: Preparing for LA 2028
The Brazilian Olympic Committee (COB) announced a record investment of R$ 1.2 billion (approximately US$ 220 million) in the 2025-2028 Olympic cycle — the largest in the history of Brazilian sports. This amount includes:
| Investment Area | Estimated Value | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Athlete Scholarship (federal) | R$ 380 million | 7,000+ athletes benefited |
| Training Centers | R$ 250 million | Deodoro TC, Saquarema TC, NAR-SP |
| Sports Science | R$ 120 million | Biomechanics, nutrition, psychology |
| International competitions | R$ 180 million | Travel, accommodation, entry fees |
| Equipment and technology | R$ 90 million | Sensors, video analysis, wearables |
| Grassroots programs | R$ 180 million | Talent identification in schools |
The Bolsa Atleta (Athlete Scholarship) program is the central pillar: podium-level athletes receive up to R$ 15,000/month (approximately US$ 2,700), allowing exclusive dedication to training. Without this support, many athletes in less popular sports (such as race walking, canoeing, and archery) would not be able to compete internationally.
Centers of Excellence
Brazil has world-class training centers:
- Saquarema Training Center (RJ): Considered the best beach volleyball center in the world, where Ana Patrícia and Duda train daily
- NAR-SP (High Performance Center): Multi-sport center in São Paulo with state-of-the-art equipment
- Deodoro Training Center (RJ): Legacy of the Rio 2016 Games, used by equestrian, modern pentathlon, and shooting athletes
- Team Brazil TC (Colorado Springs, USA): Advanced base in the USA for acclimatization before LA28
The COB's strategy for LA28 includes acclimatization camps in Los Angeles starting in 2027, allowing athletes to adapt to the time zone, climate, and conditions of the Californian city well in advance.
The Home Factor: Brazilian Fans in LA
Los Angeles has one of the largest Brazilian communities in the USA — estimated at 300,000 people in Greater LA. This means Brazilian athletes will have significant crowd support in the arenas, something that can make a difference in sports like beach volleyball, judo, and gymnastics, where fan support directly influences performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are Brazil's biggest favorites for LA 2028?
Rebeca Andrade (gymnastics), Rayssa Leal (skateboarding), Ana Patrícia/Duda (beach volleyball), Hugo Calderano (table tennis), and Bia Souza (judo).
How many medals could Brazil win in 2028?
With the current generation, Brazil has the potential for 20-25 medals, including 5-8 golds — which would be a record.
Will Brazil compete in flag football?
Brazil's participation depends on the qualification process. Flag football is new and the USA are the absolute favorites.
Will Rebeca Andrade compete at LA 2028?
The expectation is yes. At 29, she'll be at the peak of her maturity. But it depends on her physical condition and qualification at the World Championships.
🏅 Historic Medals: The Moments That Defined Olympic Brazil
To understand what LA 2028 means, it's worth remembering the moments that shaped Brazil's Olympic identity:
- Aurélio Miguel (Seoul 1988): The first Olympic gold in Brazilian judo opened the doors for a tradition that would yield dozens of medals in the following decades
- Vanderlei Cordeiro de Lima (Athens 2004): He was leading the marathon when he was attacked by a spectator. He finished 3rd and received the Pierre de Coubertin Medal for sportsmanship — one of the most emotional moments in Olympic history
- Neymar and the National Team (Rio 2016): The penalty kick that gave Brazil its first Olympic gold in men's football, at the Maracanã, in front of 78,000 people
- Italo Ferreira (Tokyo 2021): The first Olympic gold in surfing history, won by a boy who learned to surf on a styrofoam cooler lid in Rio Grande do Norte
- Rebeca Andrade (Paris 2024): Six Olympic medals in her career, becoming Brazil's greatest medalist of all time
Each of these moments inspired a new generation of athletes. The young people who watched Rebeca in Paris are the same ones who will be training for Brisbane 2032. The Olympic cycle is, above all, a cycle of inspiration.
Sources and References
- COB — Brazilian Olympic Committee
- Olympics.com — Qualification System
- IJF — World Judo Ranking
- CNN Brasil
- Olimpíada Todo Dia
Last updated: February 17, 2026
About the Author
Hercules Gobbi is a sports journalist and Olympic enthusiast who has been covering the preparation of Brazilian athletes since London 2012.
