GOLAZONEWSJoĆ£o Gomes nominated for Fifpro Merit Awards for social initiative
- Aston Villa midfielder JoĆ£o Gomes is among 11 finalists for the Fifpro Merit Awards 2026.
- The recognition stems from his work with the Instituto JoĆ£o Gomes in Rio de Janeiro.
- The project focuses on supporting children with speech impediments.
Brazil international JoĆ£o Gomes has been shortlisted for the Fifpro Merit Awards 2026, an international prize honoring footballers who lead impactful social initiatives. The Aston Villa midfielder is one of 11 candidates recognized for his contributions through the Instituto JoĆ£o Gomes.
Located in Ramos, in the North Zone of Rio de Janeiro where the player was raised, the institute provides assistance to children facing speech challenges. Gomes, who has spoken about his own personal experience with stuttering, recently visited the facility to interact with the participants.
The Fifpro Merit Awards aim to highlight the positive influence professional athletes can have on their communities. By establishing this project in his home neighborhood, Gomes seeks to provide specialized support for a cause he has lived through personally.