PERRONE ROCHA Felipe

General
REPRESENTING BRAZIL AND SPAIN
Born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, he represented his country of birth at the world championships and Pan American Games. After moving to Spain to play for CN Barcelona, in 2005 he switched allegiances and represented Spain at several world championships and the 2008 and 2012 Olympic Games. In late 2013 he decided to return to compete for Brazil with the goal of competing at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. "I went to Brazil because so many projects were being created for the Games and I wanted to collaborate. I could help beyond the sporting aspect." In 2018 he returned to the Spanish national team. "You need to understand that water polo is not like football. In water polo, a player from a country without infrastructure should be able to switch and take part in major events. I was born in Brazil, but I came to Barcelona at age 15, and my grandmother was from here. I identify myself with both countries and I think that should be understood." (elpais.com, 25 Jul 2019; elmundo.es, 07 Jun 2018; rio2016.com, 29 Jun 2015)