Judge removes Brazil soccer president from office days after Ancelotti hired
Associated Press2 days
Court Removes Brazil Soccer Boss From Office
Above: Brazil soccer chief Ednaldo Rodrigues speaks to the media during the 74th FIFA Congress 2024 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC) on May 17, 2024, in Bangkok, Thailand. Image copyright: Thananuwat Srirasant/Contributor/FIFA via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
The recent removal of Ednaldo Rodrigues suggests that Justice Gilmar Mendes may have decided to no longer support him after reports turned the spotlight on their relationship, drawing public criticism from lawmakers as well as social media users. Whether Mendes has decided to side with the influential circle of Judge Luiz Zveiter — one of the most powerful figures in Rio de Janeiro — remains uncertain and will likely become clearer when the Supreme Court rules on the appeal.
Narrative B
The ruling that has ordered the ousting of Ednaldo Rodrigues is not only an undue interference in Brazilian soccer affairs but also a direct affront to the constitutional order in the country. It's concerning that courts have been weaponized for political purposes at the expense of the stability of Brazil's soccer governing body and at the risk of potential international sanctions against for the Seleção and Brazilian clubs.