Flamengo hit back at Palmeiras with statement amid refereeing row | OneFootball

Flamengo issued an official response to Palmeiras after Abel Ferreira’s side criticised the STJD for charging Maurício with violent conduct and referenced Flamengo and Erick Pulgar. According to Coluna Do Fla, the Rio club broadened the debate on officiating and set out statistics they say explain why the issue endures.

Flamengo cited data showing that since VAR rankings began in 2020 through to the 2026 Brasileiro, Palmeiras have had the most decisions changed in their favour, 65, the fewest against among leading clubs, 47, and the biggest positive balance, +18. Palmeiras also top the total number of VAR interventions.

For this season, Flamengo noted Palmeiras rank fifth for most fouls needed to draw a yellow card, 6.72 per caution, while opponents are among those most frequently shown yellows and reds against them. They added that no single metric proves favouritism, but seven seasons of figures sustain the discussion.

Flamengo criticised coordinated pressure on officials and urged stricter application of the laws. They acknowledged CBF’s investment in training, VAR audio and technology, yet stressed decisions rest with referees, citing Vitória v Palmeiras, where Alex Gomes Stefano was on the pitch and Marco Aurélio Augusto Fazekas Ferreira handled VAR. They argued officials must be accountable for serious errors and passivity, pointing to World Cup standards of fair play.

Palmeiras said the charge against Maurício was perplexing and an affront, arguing the referee and VAR deemed a yellow sufficient. They questioned the tribunal’s criteria, pointing to similar incidents involving Pulgar and Raniele in the same round, and asked why only Maurício faces judgment. Citing prior sanctions to Abel Ferreira, Allan and Paulinho, Palmeiras demanded respect and warned they would not accept measures they consider disproportionate.

Source: Coluna Do Fla