​Official: Brazilian Child Fan Honored with 2024 FIFA Fan Award for Resilient Fight Against Rare Genetic Disease

Eight-year-old Brazilian boy Guilherme Gandra Moura has been awarded the 2024 FIFA Fan Award for his incredible resilience and unwavering love for Vasco da Gama.

In June last year, Guilherme, who suffers from a rare genetic condition called Epidermolysis Bullosa, was hospitalized with severe pneumonia and placed in an induced coma. Sixteen days later, a heartwarming video of him reuniting with his mother after waking up went viral, deeply moving countless Brazilian football fans.

As a devoted supporter of Vasco da Gama, Guilherme received encouragement during his recovery from Gabriel Pec, one of the team's star players at the time, who visited him multiple times in the hospital. After his successful discharge, Guilherme not only met the entire Vasco da Gama squad but was also chosen as the team's mascot for a match in August 2023.

His story transcended club rivalries, earning the admiration and support of fans from rival clubs, including Flamengo and Fluminense.

Established in 2016, the FIFA Fan Award recognizes extraordinary dedication and passion displayed by fans or groups in the world of football, regardless of league, gender, or nationality. The award also highlights special moments or gestures that showcase the spirit of the game.