At a recent event in Brazil, ex-footballer Raí highlighted the underrepresentation of leftist athletes in the country's sports scene, citing a lack of information, awareness, and political education as key factors. Speaking before joining the parade of the Acadêmicos do Tatuapé, he expressed his support for the Landless Workers Movement (MTST), noting the theme of the samba school's presentation, which focuses on land distribution and justice.

Raí emphasized that the MTST is striving for a fairer society and historical reparations concerning land ownership, which remains concentrated in the hands of a few. He praised the organized and conscious mobilization of the MTST, referring to the importance of addressing social disparities in both rural and urban areas. This rallying cry for justice resonates with his vision of a more equitable Brazil, where land and resources are distributed more fairly among its citizens.

As one of the few retired athletes who openly supports these progressive movements, Raí's remarks shed light on the larger issue of political engagement among athletes in Brazil, particularly in relation to leftist ideologies. He believes that a lack of political education contributes significantly to the absence of more progressive figures in Brazilian football, calling for increased awareness and activism among current and future athletes.