Flamengo claim refereeing appears to favour Palmeiras, say rules must be enforced | OneFootball

Flamengo issued a statement alleging a perception that refereeing decisions have benefited Palmeiras, citing VAR data and disciplinary trends. The club added that rules must be enforced.

Since the VAR ranking began in 2020, Palmeiras have had 65 decisions changed in their favour and 47 against, a positive balance of +18. The release followed Palmeiras’ note after the STJD prosecutor charged Mauricio, which questioned why a prosecutor’s conviction should outweigh on-field and VAR officials.

In the 2026 Brasileirão, Palmeiras are fifth for most fouls needed to draw a yellow, averaging six point seven two per booking, while opponents rank among those most cautioned and sent off. No single dataset proves favouritism, though long-term numbers fuel the debate.

The routine surrounding of officials and sustained complaints were criticised as a coordinated tactic. CBF investment and the refereeing commission’s advances, such as training, VAR audio and new technology, were noted, but responsibility for decisions lies with referees. Vitória v Palmeiras was cited, with Alex Gomes Stefano on the pitch and Marco Aurélio Augusto Fazekas Ferreira on VAR.

Referees should be accountable for serious errors, passivity and failure to curb misconduct, in line with the laws. Brazilian football should focus more on the game, applying clear criteria and refusing to reward pressure tactics, and rules must apply to all, including officials. Football is passion and business, so reliability is required from those enforcing the laws.

Source: Globo.com