Clovis Acosta Fernandes became known as the “Saddest Man in Brazil” after he was caught on camera in tears after Brazil’s brutal loss on Tuesday. In spite of his reputation as a devastated fan, Fernandes was spotted just minutes afterward smiling and passing off his trophy to a German fan. He allegedly told the German woman, “Take it to the final! As you can see, it is not easy, but you deserve it, congratulations!”
The mustachioed 59-year-old is known for his super fan status and was profiled by Brazilian news outlet Terra in May. Fernandes has been traveling to host countries during every World Cup since Italy hosted the competition in 1990, which makes this year’s set of games his 14th.
Fernandes told Terra he first got World Cup fever in 1970, the first year the games were broadcasted on Brazilian TV. He is known as “Gaucho de Copa” and founded a travel group that follows the Brazilian team during each World Cup. The group typically rents a car and road trips around the host country, learning about local culture.
Fernandes has referred to himself as the “12th player” of the Brazilian team and even gave up his pizzeria to follow his group around the world. Somehow we get the feeling his journey isn’t over.
Click through to see a gallery of Brazil’s saddest fans.
