Carioca Série C (Brazil) 2026/27

The Carioca Série C operates as the fifth tier of professional football in the state of Rio de Janeiro. Established in 2021 following a comprehensive restructuring of the regional league system, it serves as the entry-level professional division. This designation replaced the previous iteration of the name, which had denoted the fourth tier between 2017 and 2020. The organisation is overseen by the Federação de Futebol do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (FERJ).

Participation numbers fluctuate seasonally, typically ranging between 12 and 16 clubs. The structure generally comprises a group stage, referred to as the Taça Waldir Amaral, followed by knockout rounds that include semifinals and a final. The configuration of groups and team allocation varies depending on the specific year. The primary objective for the winning club is promotion to the Série B2, which constitutes the fourth tier. As the lowest rung of the professional pyramid, there is no relegation from this competition, although teams may face suspension for disciplinary infractions.

This league format distinguishes itself from the Copa Rio, which functions as a cup competition involving higher-tier clubs from Séries A1 to B2. The latter offers qualification routes for national tournaments such as the Copa do Brasil or the Campeonato Brasileiro Série D. In contrast, the Série C focuses exclusively on internal promotion within the state hierarchy. Historical data indicates that no club has secured the title more than once as of 2026. Recent winners have included Paduano, SE Belford Roxo, Zinzane, Niteroiense, Paraty, and Cardoso Moreira. The official communication channel for the governing body remains the website ferj.com.br.