Frederico Varandas cleared by Porto Court of Appeal in Pinto da Costa case | OneFootball

Frederico Varandas, the Sporting president, has been acquitted by the Tribunal da Relação do Porto in a defamation case concerning Pinto da Costa.

According to O Jogo, the proceedings related to Varandas describing the former FC Porto leader as a 'bandido' in October 2020.

The court found the remarks, though unpleasant and made amid a sporting confrontation between the two presidents, were covered by constitutionally guaranteed freedom of expression and the right to voice opinions and criticism.

It also concluded the words did not amount to an attack on the complainant’s honour, and there were not sufficient indications that Varandas intended to insult or damage his good name and reputation, but rather to respond to criticism directed at him.

The judges said the phrasing was not to be praised or endorsed, yet it remained within the scope of protected speech.

Source: O Jogo