Shocking news for Brazilian soccer fans. FIFA has issued a stern warning to the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF), threatening to ban them from major international competitions, including the FIFA World Cup and Copa America. This looming suspension comes as a result of the nation’s soccer body’s plans to hold an election to replace their current president, Ednaldo Rodriguez.
The controversy surrounding Ednaldo Rodriguez and his appointment of directors has been bubbling under the surface for some time. Recently, the Rio Court dismissed Rodriguez and his appointed directors due to irregularities surrounding his election. This decision immediately caught the attention of FIFA, prompting them to take action.
FIFA sends a serious warning to Brazil
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Following the court’s ruling, Ednaldo Rodrigues took the initiative to appoint José Perdiz, the president of Brazil’s highest sporting body, to organize new elections for the CBF presidency. As per LeParisien, the situation took an unexpected turn when FIFA intervened, sending a letter to the CBF.
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The letter indicated that the Selecao could face suspension if the elections were conducted without proper permission. The letter, signed by an official of FIFA’s member associations and the deputy general secretary of Conmebol, emphasized the potential consequences Brazil could face if they go ahead with the elections in January.
A suspension would mean that the five World Cup winners would be barred from participating in any major soccer tournament. Such a suspension would pose a significant setback for Brazil, especially considering the Copa America next year. The team is already in a tough situation due to the confirmation of Neymar Jr.‘s availability for the tournament.
Despite the outcome of the threat, Neymar will still miss the Copa America 2024
The Al Hilal forward is currently in the process of recovering from a season-ending ACL and meniscus injury. This injury occurred in October during the FIFA World Cup qualifier match against Uruguay. And unfortunately, it has been confirmed that he will not be able to participate in the Copa America tournament in June 2024.
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Brazilian national team doctor Rodrigo Lasma recently stated, “We won’t have time; it’s too early. There’s no point in skipping stages to recover.” While his absence from the Copa America is unfortunate, Lasma remains hopeful that Neymar will be fit for the club season by August. It is a big blow, but an even bigger blow might come if FIFA decides to ban Brazil.
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