Israeli Capoeira Team Honored by President After Historic World Championship Win

Jerusalem, 20 November, 2025 (TPS-IL) — Israel’s capoeira team met President Isaac Herzog and First Lady Michal Herzog following a milestone win at the World Championship in Brazil. Nitzan Pizanti became the first Israeli – and the first non-Brazilian – to win the global competition, marking a historic breakthrough for the sport in Israel.

Capoeira, an Afro-Brazilian martial art combining acrobatics, dance and rhythm, has grown steadily in Israel in recent years. The team trains under the international Abada Capoeira school, which promotes inclusion and social empowerment through the sport. Herzog praised the athletes for bringing “immense national pride.” The visit concluded with a celebratory roda showcasing the team’s skills.