Brazil’s 1970 WC winner Brito dies at 86, heartbreak for the nation before the FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign

Former Brazil Defender Brito, who was part of Brazil’s legendary 1970 World Cup winning squad has died at the age of 86, the Brazilian football federation CBF confirmed on Thursday evening.

The cause of death was not officially disclosed.Brito, a towering centre-back, was a key figure in the team that lifted the World Cup in Mexico in 1970, a squad widely regarded as one of the greatest international teams ever. He was its defensive spine along with his defensive partner Wilson Piazza. Brito started every single one of Brazil's six matches at the 1970 World Cup in Mexico and was never once substituted. He formed the defensive bedrock with Piazza on which that legendary team of Pele, Jairzinho and Rivelino dazzled the world.

Brito played 61 games for the national team between 1964 and 1972, including an appearance at the 1966 World Cup. Beyond Mexico 1970, he was also part of the Brazilian sides that won the Copa Roca in 1971 and the Taça Independência in 1972.At club level, Brito began his career at Vasco da Gama and went on to represent several of Brazil's biggest clubs including Flamengo, Cruzeiro, Internacional, Corinthians, and Botafogo.

CBF president Samir Xaud paid a heartfelt tribute, saying Brito left as one of the greatest defenders in Brazilian football history, and that his contribution to the 1970 World Cup triumph would be forever remembered.The news comes at a bittersweet moment for Brazilian football. Carlo Ancelotti's side are aiming to win their first World Cup since 2002, which would be a record sixth title overall, but injuries have cast a long shadow over their preparations.

Both Rodrygo and Estêvão ruled out earlier, leaving Brazil notably thin on the wings. Neymar is also unavailable for their World Cup opener against Morocco, nursing a calf injury, and Ederson was called up as a last-minute replacement for Wesley.Despite the setbacks, Brazil head into the tournament with hope and the weight of history on their shoulders as they bid for the sixth crown. Xaud also said Brito's contribution to the 1970 World Cup triumph would be forever remembered, and that his fighting spirit should serve as an inspiration for the players competing at the 2026 World Cup.