ESPORTE E PESSOAS COM DEFICIÊNCIA VISUAL: DISCUSSÃO SOBRE A CRIAÇÃO DE UMA NOVA CLASSE PARA O FUTEBOL DE BAIXA VISÃO

Paralympic sports play a crucial role for people with disabilities, enabling sports participation that fosters inclusion, quality of life, and, in some cases, the opportunity to become athletes. However, some disciplines, such as Partially Sighted Football, still face developmental challenges. Additionally, individuals with mild or moderate visual impairments are often ineligible to compete, highlighting a gap that needs to be addressed. This study aims to propose a new sports class to expand participation for these athletes. The research adopts an exploratory and qualitative approach, based on document analysis and literature review, utilizing data from international organizations and Brazilian legislation. The results highlight limitations in the current ophthalmologic classification system, which includes classes B1, B2, and B3 but excludes individuals with less severe visual impairments. Drawing inspiration from international initiatives, such as the B4 class adopted in the United Kingdom, we propose the creation of categories incorporating functionality criteria and technical field tests, alongside the inclusion of athletes with monocular vision in Partially Sighted Football. The discussion demonstrates that expanding the classes could enhance sports equity, uncover new talent, and strengthen the sport. However, its feasibility depends on adjustments and acceptance by sports organizations. We conclude that establishing new classes in Partially Sighted Football is a viable solution to promote greater inclusion and development of the discipline, contributing to the consolidation of adapted sports in Brazil. Received: 2024/12/07 Reformulated: 2025/05/05 Accepted: 2025/05/05