Wagner Cardoso
Born March 20, 1989 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil • Next birthday: March 20, 2026
March 20, 1989
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil0
0 likesMarch 20, 2026
139 days out10
Total visitsThe extraordinary journey of Wagner Francisco Cardoso began not in fame, but in quiet determination, a bold vision, and a resolve to master the 400 metres sprint. Born on 1989-03-20 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, he emerged from local club competition into the continental arena. However, the challenge was steep: breaking through Brazil's established sprint tradition. He responded by training relentlessly and embracing the regional relay teams. In youth competition in 2006 he placed fourth in the 400 m at the South American Youth Championships, and soon after collected gold in the medley and 4×400 m events. His membership of the Brazilian 4×400 m relay squad culminated in a seventh-place finish at the 2013 World Championships in Moscow. Despite the setback of narrowly missing a medal, he dug deeper, improved his personal best to 45.80 s in 2013 and later 45.69 s in 2014. He captured South American gold in the 4×400 relay in 2011 and earned silver and bronze in subsequent editions, contributing to the team's growing regional dominance. Although he did not become a global individual champion, he became a linchpin in Brazil's relay tradition and a mentor for younger athletes. This momentum led to his transition into coaching and club leadership within Brazilian athletics, helping nurture the next generation. In retrospect, Wagner Cardoso's career was a masterclass in resilience, forever altering our understanding of sprint relay teamwork.
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Career & Achievements
- Gold – 4×400 m relay, South American Championships 2011
- Silver – 400 m, South American Championships 2013
- Bronze – 4×400 m relay, South American Championships 2013
- 7th place – 4×400 m relay, World Championships 2013 (Moscow)
- Personal best 400 m: 45.69 s (2014)
Personal Details
Latest News
Brazil Athletics Weekly
Wagner Cardoso Appointed Head Coach for Brazil's U-23 Sprint Squad
Brazilian sprint icon Wagner Cardoso has been tapped to lead the national U-23 400 m and relay programme. This new role marks a major transition from his competitive career into high-performance coaching, bringing his experience from continental victories into youth athlete development.
South America Sports Network
Historic Relay Medal: Wagner Cardoso Returns to Track as Mentor at South American Games
At the 2025 South American Games, Wagner Cardoso appeared on the infield once again - not as a competitor but as a mentor for Brazil's 4×400 m relay team that secured silver. His presence was credited with reinforcing team cohesion and executing strategic baton exchanges under pressure.
Rio Sports Journal
Wagner Cardoso Launches Sprint Academy in Rio de Janeiro to Empower Local Talent
In an initiative blending tradition and innovation, Wagner Cardoso inaugurated the Cardoso Sprint Academy in his hometown of Rio de Janeiro. The academy focuses on 400 m training, relay strategy and sports-science integration, aiming to nurture Brazil's next generation of sprinters from grassroots level.
Global Athletics Today
Former Sprinter Wagner Cardoso Named Ambassador for National Anti-Doping Campaign
Wagner Cardoso has accepted an ambassadorial role for Brazil's anti-doping campaign, leveraging his reputation and integrity to raise awareness of fair play. The campaign highlights his journey through adversity and his commitment to clean sport as an exemplar for rising athletes.
FAQ
What makes Wagner Cardoso stand out in Brazilian athletics?
Wagner Cardoso distinguished himself through his versatility in both individual 400m events and team relays. His consistency, leadership, and record-setting performances in South American competitions solidified his place among Brazil's sprinting elite. Cardoso's transition into mentoring young athletes further underscores his long-term contribution to the sport.
How did Wagner Cardoso begin his sprinting career?
Cardoso began competing in local athletics clubs in Rio de Janeiro before advancing to national youth events. His breakout came in 2006 when he placed fourth in the South American Youth Championships. From there, his dedication to training and discipline propelled him to continental and world-level competitions.
What was Wagner Cardoso's greatest athletic achievement?
His most notable achievement was winning gold in the 4×400m relay at the 2011 South American Championships. He also played a crucial role in Brazil's relay team that finished seventh at the 2013 World Championships in Moscow, showcasing his skill on the global stage.
Did Wagner Cardoso compete internationally?
Yes, he represented Brazil in several international competitions, including the 2013 World Championships in Moscow. His participation in both the 400m and 4×400m relay events highlighted Brazil's presence in world athletics.
What is Wagner Cardoso's personal best time in the 400m?
Wagner Cardoso achieved a personal best of 45.69 seconds in 2014. This time ranked him among Brazil's fastest quarter-milers of his generation and reflected years of disciplined training and competition.
What challenges did Wagner Cardoso face in his career?
Cardoso faced the challenge of breaking through Brazil's already established sprint hierarchy and competing against top regional rivals. He responded by intensifying his training regimen and dedicating himself to team success, particularly in the relay events where his contributions were pivotal.
What role does Wagner Cardoso play in athletics today?
After his competitive years, Cardoso turned to coaching and club development in Brazil. He now helps nurture upcoming sprinters, emphasizing teamwork, resilience, and the importance of national pride in athletics.
Which teams or clubs did Wagner Cardoso represent?
Throughout his career, Wagner Cardoso was affiliated with leading Brazilian athletics clubs that supported national and regional competitions. These associations helped him train with elite coaches and teammates, contributing to his development as a world-class relay athlete.
How did Wagner Cardoso influence Brazil's relay culture?
Cardoso played a key role in strengthening Brazil's relay strategy and synchronization techniques. His teamwork and communication skills became benchmarks for younger athletes, helping Brazil maintain its competitive edge in continental relay events.
What legacy does Wagner Cardoso leave behind?
His legacy lies in his commitment to both individual excellence and collective success. By mentoring young athletes and demonstrating discipline under pressure, Cardoso helped redefine what it means to represent Brazil in sprinting. His story continues to inspire athletes striving for regional and international recognition.
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