Author: Vishwajit Sawant
Jorge Sampaoli, Flamengo’s coach, filed a lawsuit against Neto, presenter of the program “Os Donos da Bola”, after an alleged racist comment made by Neto on April 18. The comment was allegedly made shortly after Sampaoli’s arrival at Flamengo and referred to an accusation of racism involving a goalkeeper coach during Sampaoli’s time at Santos.
Neto is due to appear in court in the next few days to explain his comments. Sampaoli’s lawyer, Raphael Fisori, stated that the legal action is intended to support possible future criminal claims, compensation proceedings or retractions.
The lawsuit comes after Neto accused Sampaoli of racism and mistreatment of employees during his time at Santos. On the show “Os Donos da Bola”, Neto claimed that Sampaoli never greeted anyone, didn’t speak Portuguese and didn’t treat his staff well. He also claimed that Sampaoli kept a black employee, Arzul, out of the dressing room.
The case will be analyzed by Judge Alessandra Regina Ramos Rodrigues Bisognin. Sampaoli’s legal team is hoping to receive an explanation for Neto’s alleged comments and determine whether they were made with malicious intent. Legal action could result in a criminal complaint, compensation proceedings or retraction.
The lawsuit sparked controversy and discussion among fans and soccer experts. It is not yet known what further action, if any, will be taken in response to the alleged comments made by Neto.