The knowledge of genetic markers and morphological variables in regards to the Paralympic Football Five-a-Side team is important since it can shape training strategies and enable the maximum potential of the athletes to be reached. The aim of the present study was to analyze the dermatoglyphic and body composition characteristics of athletes on the Brazilian Paralympic Five-A-Side National Football Team. A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out with a sample composed of 13 athletes (27.0±6.5 years old, 71.7±7.4 kg) from the Brazilian Paralympic Five-A-Side National Football Team who participated in the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games. The dermatoglyphic data was collected using the protocol proposed by Cummins and Midlo. The methodology proposed by Heath-Carter was used to determine the somatotype. The study showed a high Loop pattern frequency (L) (66.2%) and low TRC (97.4 ± 28.6) and D10 averages (10.0 ± 2.5) for the general group. Goalkeepers, defender and pivots obtained a higher frequency of Loop (L) followed by Arch (A) with a reduction in Whorl values (W). Among the wings, there was a predominance of Loop (L) followed by Whorl (W) with reduction in the Arch (A). As for the somatotype in the different tactical positions at play, the study found that the defender (2.6-4.4- 2.4) and pivots (2.2-5.6-2.3) presented a balanced mesomorphic profile and the goalkeepers (3.2-5.8-1.6) and wings (3.2-5.7-1.6) a meso-endomorphic one. The Brazilian Paralympic Five-A-Side National Football Team has a genetic predisposition for the development of speed and strength. Wings also have a genetic predisposition for endurance. The somatotypic profile presented by the athletes indicates predominance of the muscular component for the Paralympic 5-A-Side football team, in all positions.
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