Brazilian top-flight club Coritiba have paid an emotional tribute to 29-year-old English supporter Jonny Butcher, who is living with motor neurone disease (MND), by displaying his name on their shirts during their league match against Chapecoense. Instead of their usual front-of-shirt sponsor, Coritiba players wore shirts bearing Butcher’s name alongside the message: “Your strength inspires us. We stand as one.” The gesture was designed to show solidarity with Butcher and raise awareness of MND. Butcher, from Norwich, was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a form of MND, in Fe

Brazilian top-flight club Coritiba have paid an emotional tribute to 29-year-old English supporter Jonny Butcher, who is living with motor neurone disease (MND), by displaying his name on their shirts during their league match against Chapecoense.

Instead of their usual front-of-shirt sponsor, Coritiba players wore shirts bearing Butcher’s name alongside the message: “Your strength inspires us. We stand as one.” The gesture was designed to show solidarity with Butcher and raise awareness of MND.

Butcher, from Norwich, was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a form of MND, in February. The incurable condition affects nerve cells that control movement, gradually causing muscles to weaken and lose function.

A lifelong Norwich City supporter, Butcher developed a special connection with Coritiba through his wife, Ana Clara, who is originally from the Brazilian city. The couple met through a Christian dating app in March 2023, and Butcher travelled to Brazil several months later, developing a strong bond with the city and its football club.

Their connection was strengthened by the strategic partnership between Norwich City and Coritiba, established in 2022. Jonny and Ana Clara married in 2024, but his diagnosis the following year dramatically changed their lives.

Despite his illness, Butcher created a bucket list of experiences he hoped to complete. One of his wishes was to attend a Coritiba match at the club’s Couto Pereira stadium with his brother-in-law. However, breathing difficulties and reduced mobility have prevented him from making the trip.

Coritiba learned about his story and decided to honour him at the stadium. The match shirts also featured a sunflower, a symbol associated with awareness of non-visible disabilities.

After the Brazilian national anthem, Coritiba players posed with a banner carrying Butcher’s name and signatures from supporters, players and club staff.

Some match-worn shirts will be given to Butcher’s family, while others will support an organisation helping people living with rare diseases, including MND.

The tribute highlighted football’s ability to unite people across borders while using the sport’s global platform to promote awareness, compassion and solidarity.

A little more informed. A little more connected.