CBF president regrets Flamengo’s decision | OneFootball

Samir Xaud, president of CBF, commented on Flamengo's withdrawal from playing in the Copinha

By the club's own choice, Flamengo will not play in the São Paulo Junior Football Cup, the Copinha, in 2026. When questioned about the situation, the president of the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF), Samir Xaud, respected the club's decision and emphasized the desire to value the youth categories in the country.

“We are increasingly promoting and investing in youth football. I think it's the club's choice, but we are not afraid and what we want is to further strengthen our youth football,” said Samir Xaud in an interview with journalist Otávio Rocha.

WHY IS FLAMENGO NOT PLAYING IN THE COPINHA?

With the World Cup on the global calendar next year in Brazil, the Brazilian Championship will start right in January. In the same month, the Carioca will also begin. Therefore, the team that would compete in the Copinha will play in the first rounds of the State Championship, as has happened in recent years at Flamengo.

With the under-20 team in the Copinha, some fans asked for Flamengo to field the under-17 team in the São Paulo tournament. However, the squad will be abroad for an international competition. Thus, the club's management decided not to register the team in the tournament.

AND THE PROFESSIONAL TEAM?

While the youth team prepares for the professional Carioca Championship, the main team of Flamengo is seeking two titles in the coming days. On Saturday (29), the Most Beloved will attempt to win their fourth Libertadores against Palmeiras. Then on Wednesday (03), the Rubro-Negro will fight for their ninth Brasileirão.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.