Botafogo Futebol Clube, commonly known as Botafogo-SP or simply Botafogo de Ribeirão Preto, is a professional football club based in the city of Ribeirão Preto, in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. Founded on December 12, 1918, the club has a rich history and is one of the most traditional teams from the interior of São Paulo state.
Botafogo-SP was established by a group of young football enthusiasts inspired by the famous Rio de Janeiro club Botafogo FR—hence adopting the same name and black-and-white colors. The club’s nickname is “Pantera” (The Panther), which symbolizes agility, strength, and tenacity—traits the team proudly represents on the pitch.
The club’s colors are black and white, typically worn in vertical stripes, reflecting a classic and striking design that resonates with fans and rivals alike.
Botafogo-SP’s home matches are played at the Estádio Santa Cruz, located in Ribeirão Preto. The stadium has a seating capacity of around 29,000 and is known for its vibrant atmosphere during matches. Santa Cruz is considered one of the largest stadiums outside the São Paulo metropolitan area and serves as a crucial sporting venue for the region.
While Botafogo-SP does not share the same level of national prominence as some of the giant clubs from São Paulo city, it holds a respected position in Brazilian football, especially within the São Paulo state competitions. Highlights include:
Campeonato Paulista: Botafogo-SP has competed regularly in the São Paulo state championship, which is one of the most competitive state leagues in Brazil. The club has achieved notable successes, including promotion to the top division and strong performances against more prominent teams.
Campeonato Brasileiro Série B and Série C: The club has fluctuated between Brazil’s second and third tiers of the national league system, often competing hard to gain promotion and establish itself at higher levels.
Torneio Início Paulista: Botafogo-SP has won regional titles and trophies in various Paulista tournaments, further proving its competitive spirit.
Botafogo-SP has regional rivalries that fuel local passion and generate intense matches. One of the most significant rivalries is with Marília Atlético Clube, with whom they contest the “Come-Fogo” derby—named for the cities of Marília and Ribeirão Preto.
Botafogo-SP is known for its hardworking, resilient teams that reflect the character of the city of Ribeirão Preto. The club emphasizes the development of local talent and often nurtures young players who aspire to compete at higher levels nationally and internationally.
The club’s supporters are deeply passionate and loyal, proud of their team’s identity as a major representative of São Paulo’s interior football scene.
Over the decades, Botafogo-SP has been a launching pad for players who have gone on to succeed in bigger Brazilian clubs and abroad. Though not as internationally renowned, the club has a proud tradition of nurturing talent and contributing to Brazilian football’s broader ecosystem.
In essence, Botafogo Futebol Clube (SP) stands as a proud and historic football club representing Ribeirão Preto with deep roots in Brazilian football culture. It balances tradition and ambition, continually striving to compete and succeed while maintaining a strong connection to its local community.
