TAD delivers final verdict on Benfica criticism of Fábio Veríssimo | OneFootball

According to Glorioso 1904, the Tribunal Arbitral do Desporto has dismissed Benfica's appeal, upholding a fine of 1,836 euros for criticism of Fábio Veríssimo following the Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira against Sporting.

The penalty was issued by the Portuguese Football Federation's disciplinary body after posts on Benfica's X account objected to Veríssimo's appointment for the Estádio do Algarve fixture. Those posts also claimed the referee had previously delivered performances that harmed the club in matches against Sporting.

Benfica challenged the sanction at TAD, arguing the messages were an exercise in freedom of expression. That argument did not convince the tribunal.

Veríssimo was subsequently appointed to officiate Benfica's Taça de Portugal tie against Porto.

The Supertaça marked the curtain-raiser to the 2025/26 season at the Estádio do Algarve. Benfica lifted the trophy with a 1-0 win, Vangelis Pavlidis scoring the only goal for a side then coached by Bruno Lage.

Source: Glorioso 1904