Fortaleza EC

Fortaleza EC

Fortaleza EC (FEC)

Overview

Fortaleza Esporte Clube is Ceará State's most popular and decorated club, in Brazil's Northeast. Founded in 1918 in Fortaleza, Ceará's capital, the club competes in Brazilian Série A and plays home matches at Arena Castelão, a modern 63,000-capacity venue built for the 2014 World Cup. The Leão do Pici (Lion of Pici) represents Northeast pride in national football.

Fortaleza has experienced a remarkable resurgence in recent years after decades in lower divisions. The club has won 46 Ceará State championships (absolute Brazilian record) and established itself as a rising force in Série A since 2019. In 2023, Fortaleza reached the Copa Libertadores quarter-finals, the best performance by a Northeast club in years, demonstrating Leão's spectacular progress.

The club is characterized by modern and professional management rare in Brazil, with intelligent investments in infrastructure and recruitment. Players like Osvaldo, Wellington Paulista and more recently Lucero have shone in tricolor colors. Fortaleza maintains the Clássico-Rei with Ceará, Fortaleza's derby that captivates the Northeast. Leão supporters create an impressive atmosphere at Castelão, making the stadium one of Brazil's hottest venues during important matches.

FAQ

General Information

Founded: 1918
Stadium: Estádio Castelão
Official Website: www.fortalezaec.net