Valdir Appel (born 1 May 1946), is a Brazilian former professional footballer who played as a goalkeeper.
Born in Brusque, Appel began his career at CE Paysandu, also having a spell at CA Carlos Renaux, until arriving in Rio de Janeiro on loan to America. In 1966, it was definitively acquired by Vasco da Gama. At Vasco, he was a substitute for Edgardo Andrada most of the time, including during Pelé's 1000th goal. He was notable for throwing the ball into his own goal in a match against Bangu on 16 March 1969. Appel played for several clubs throughout Brazil, ending his career at EC Rio Verde in 1982.
Valdir Appel became a writer of books with an emphasis on football.