What is gauchao?

Gauchão is the colloquial name for the Campeonato Gaúcho, which is the professional football championship of the Rio Grande do Sul state in Brazil. The competition began in 1919 and has been held annually ever since with the exception of a few times. It is contested by 12 teams of the state and is one of the oldest and most traditional football tournaments held in Brazil. The winning teams of Gauchão qualify for the Copa do Brasil and the Campeonato Brasileiro Série D. Gauchão is known for its passionate fans, intense rivalries, and high-quality football, which have made it a significant event in the Brazilian football calendar.