Author: Monojit Mandal
Touro, the popular mascot of the Franca basketball team, was recently acquitted by the Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD) after an allegation of aggression against three officials during a tournament in the New Basketball Brazil (NBB) earlier this year. The incident occurred during a heated game between Franca and Pato Basquete at the Pedrocão Gymnasium.
The mascot was initially accused of physically assaulting officials on the court, despite his reputation for energizing the public and increasing team spirit. However, the club quickly presented a convincing defense in favor of the mascot, leading the prosecutor to drop the charges. However, the STJD auditors had already exonerated the bull, claiming that the mascot had accidentally collided with the referees while carrying out his duties during the game.
The match supervisor was warned as a result of the event for alleged abuse of power. The mascot was charged with “involvement in physical aggression”, which could result in a fine of four to twelve games or a suspension of 130 to 180 days. In addition, “trespassing on an area designated for the refereeing team, the match venue, testing grounds or similar locations during or between regulated intervals” can result in a fine of one to three games or a suspension of 15 to 180 days.
Felippe Manoel, who has dressed up as a bull for the last six years, expressed his joy at the mascot’s acquittal. On the court, the stylist declared the verdict a “victory” and reaffirmed his commitment to helping Franca in their goal of winning the NBB championship twice. Franca are currently preparing for the semi-finals, where they will face Minas. If they reach the final, they will face the winner of the series between Flamengo and São Paulo.
The result of Bull’s acquittal provoked conflicting emotions among basketball fans. Although fans of the mascot are pleased with the result, some say that more care needs to be taken in the future to avoid similar tragedies. However, the mascot will continue to be an important element of Franca’s basketball games, stimulating team spirit and creating an exciting atmosphere in the Pedroco Gymnasium.