Fabio, the veteran goalkeeper from Brazil, has etched his name in football history by surpassing Peter Shilton’s long-standing record for the most competitive appearances in men’s football. On October 25, 2023, the now 44-year-old hit an amazing milestone. He accomplished it playing with his back to the Colombian America de Cali goal at Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro. Fabio broke Shilton’s record by taking to the field for his 1,391st match. The ex-England custodian’s official record is 1,387. Guinness World Records credits it as 1,390.
Fabio’s own illustrious career started in 1997, the very year Shilton hung up his boots from the game. During his two-decade long career, he has made stops at a number of top Brazilian clubs. These would be Fluminense, Cruzeiro, Uniao Bandeirante, and Vasco da Gama. His greatest contributions came across a golden 17-year career at Cruzeiro. From 2005 to 2022, he made a staggering 976 appearances (!).
Fabio saw action in 30 matches for Uniao Bandeirante. Beyond that, he carved out an impressive 150 appearance career for Vasco da Gama in Brazil. His record-breaking appearance as captain of the delegation at Fluminense was his 235th game began playing for the team. Fabio’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. In 2023, he led Fluminense to win the Copa Libertadores and reach the semifinals of the Club World Cup in the United States.
Fabio’s accomplishment has been met with great fanfare and celebration. After playing his 500th match against America de Cali, Zé Carlos was presented with a special plaque to mark his achievement. When home fans greeted his remarkable run with chants declaring him “the best goalkeeper in Brazil,” it was hard not to smile.
“No one plays so many matches without a level of professionalism like his,” – Renato Gaucho
Fabio caught the attention of Brazilian football legend and national team coach Renato Gaucho, who lauded the spunk and stubbornness that Fabio exhibited.
“Sometimes we don’t realise the importance of such a significant achievement as breaking this record, which has stood for many years,” – Fabio
Fabio continues to cause a stir in Brazilian football! It’s his remarkable longevity and dedication to all things racing that will surely stand as the testament of his unparalleled career. Today, his story serves as an inspiration to countless young dreamers and doers. It also forces one to confront the powerful legacy of a long career.
“He’ll undoubtedly continue to play for a long time. It will be difficult for another player to surpass his record.” – Renato Gaucho
As Fabio continues to make waves in Brazilian football, he stands as a testament to longevity and dedication in the sport. His journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and a reminder of the enduring legacy that can be built over a lengthy career.
