STJD clears Paulinho over goal celebration against Flamengo | OneFootball

Paulinho has been cleared by the STJD’s Fourth Disciplinary Commission over his goal celebration against Flamengo, following a hearing on Thursday.

According to Globo.com, the Palmeiras forward was tried for an incident during last Saturday’s match at the Maracanã. He had been charged under article 258-A of the CBJD for provoking the crowd, which carries a two to six match suspension.

The prosecutor considered his gesture obscene, though it mirrors a movement used by organised supporters of Palmeiras and Vasco, the club where he first made his name.

Preparing for Palmeiras’ game against Junior Barranquilla on Thursday, he sent a video to the panel. He said the celebration followed his first goal after almost a year out, scored in his home city with his family present. He described it as directed at Palmeiras fans and as a symbol of unity between the three clubs he has represented, Palmeiras, Vasco and Atlético-MG.

He maintained it was not intended to provoke Flamengo supporters or to incite violence.

In the hearing, rapporteur Gustavo Vaughn voted for acquittal and the other four auditors agreed.

Palmeiras president Leila Pereira later defended the celebration during the Copa do Brasil draw, saying players should not have to apologise after scoring and that she saw no issue in a big, tense game, adding that football is entertainment.

Source: Globo.com