Palmeiras head coach Abel Ferreira has been suspended for three matches in the Campeonato Brasileiro by the Superior Tribunal de Justiça Desportiva (STJD). The suspension stems from an incident on August 30, when the Portuguese manager kicked a microphone following a 1–1 draw against Mirassol.
STJD Increases Suspension and Upcoming Matches Missed
The STJD retried the case and increased the punishment to a three-match ban. Initially, the manager received a two-game penalty in the first instance. With this latest ruling, Abel Ferreira will miss crucial fixtures in the Brasileirão.
The manager is sidelined for the derby against São Paulo, followed by matches against Grêmio and Bahia. He is scheduled to return to the touchline on October 11 against Corinthians. This new punishment brings Abel Ferreira’s total matches missed due to disciplinary action to 10 games in this edition of the Brasileirão.
Legal Arguments and Tribunal Observations
During the tribunal proceedings, auditor and case rapporteur Antonieta Silva Pinto criticized the manager’s behavior on the touchline, noting that kicking an object demonstrates emotional instability and sets a bad example. “By kicking the microphone, he showed a lack of temperance and did not measure the consequences of his act,” Pinto stated.
Defense attorney André Sica argued that the prosecution was effectively attempting to push the coach out of the national championship over an inanimate object. “The prosecution practically asked for the coach’s expulsion from the Brazilian Championship. What is the reason for this? The kick to an inanimate object, a microphone,” Sica said during his oral argument.
Meanwhile, referee João Victor Gobbi received a warning for ignoring the incident, while the fourth official and the VAR were acquitted.
Touchline Leadership and Assistant Record
In Abel Ferreira’s absence, assistant coach João Martins will take charge of the team from the technical area. This will be Martins’ tenth derby managing the side since 2020. Across nine previous matches, Martins has secured three victories, four draws, and two defeats. Against São Paulo specifically, Martins holds a record of one win and two losses across three encounters.
Did you know? The current Palmeiras coaching staff enters this fixture stretch undefeated in state derbies this season, boasting six victories and three draws across nine matches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Abel Ferreira suspended by the STJD?
Abel Ferreira received a three-match suspension for kicking a microphone following a 1–1 draw against Mirassol on August 30.
Which matches will the Palmeiras coach miss?
The manager is ruled out for the fixture against São Paulo, as well as upcoming games against Grêmio and Bahia.
Who will manage Palmeiras during the suspension?
Assistant coach João Martins will direct the team from the touchline during Abel Ferreira’s absence.
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