Brazilian top-flight club wear name of English fan with MND on shirts

For their league game against Chapecoense, Brazilian club Coritiba displayed a unique touch on their shirts. Instead of a traditional sponsor logo, the front featured the name of an English fan battling motor neurone disease (MND). Jonny Butcher, a 29-year-old from Norwich, was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) - a form of MND - in February.

Butcher, a lifelong Norwich City fan, became acquainted with Coritiba through his wife, Ana Clara, a native Brazilian. The couple married in 2024, but Butcher's MND diagnosis altered their plans. However, Coritiba learned of his story and chose to honor him during the Serie A match. The players' shirts bore "Your strength inspires us.

We stand as one," alongside a sunflower emblem representing non-visible disabilities. Post-national anthem, players held a banner with Butcher's name and signatures from Coritiba fans, players, and staff.

Ana Clara, visibly moved, expressed the emotional impact on their family. "To see Jonny's name inside Couto Pereira, surrounded by thousands of strangers who chose to stand behind him, was incredibly emotional." Coritiba plans to send some shirts to Butcher's family and a rare disease assistance institution. Jonny hopes to express his gratitude personally, even though an in-person thank you is impossible.

Despite their dire circumstances, the family holds onto love and kindness, ensuring this act remains a part of their story.