Brazil's national women's volleyball team has decided not to participate in the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympic Games on July 26, according to press reports from the South American country. "We are fully concentrated. We are trying to plan our athletic form as best as possible. We really think it's best not to go. We don't know how long we'll have to wait, whether we'll have to stand for a long time. Let's think about our goal, which is to win the gold medal. We are very focused on giving our best and being as prepared as possible," argued Gabi Guimaraes.

The decision was made by the entire team, with coach Z\u00e9 Roberto expressing his opinion but leaving the final decision to the athletes, who chose to focus on their training and rest schedule. Brazil's first match is scheduled for July 29 against Kenya.

photos:Globo and .volleyballworld