Brazão suspended for four matches by STJD over comments about Raphael Claus | OneFootball

Gabriel Brazão has been banned for four matches and fined R$ 4,000 by the STJD’s third Disciplinary Commission for remarks about referee Raphael Claus. It is a first instance ruling and Santos will seek to appeal, said club lawyer Marcelo Mendes.

According to Diario Do Peixe, he was cited for comments after Santos drew 1-1 with Palmeiras at Allianz Parque on 2 May in round 14 of the Brasileirão. He had been booked in the 32nd minute of the first half.

He was charged under Article 243-F of the CBJD, which punishes offences to honour in sport with fines and suspensions, and sets a minimum four match ban for players who target match officials.

Mendes argued it was criticism rather than an offence, delivered in the compulsory mixed zone where players answer media questions. He asked for full acquittal.

Auditor rapporteur Rafael Bozzano held that alleging systematic favour to the home team is not legitimate criticism but an accusation of partiality that harms a referee’s objective honour. He found the conduct to fit Article 243-F.

Commission president Adriene Hassen and auditor Marina Volpato backed his vote, while José Maria Philomeno and George Ramalho dissented and voted to acquit.

In the same hearing, Santos were fined R$ 3,000 for a delay before the 1-1 draw with São Paulo at Vila Belmiro on 4 February, in round two of the Brasileirão. The visitors were also penalised with a R$ 4,000 fine under Article 206, and referee Anderson Daronco recorded the late entry.

Source: Diario Do Peixe