John Textor’s lawyer, Michel Asseff Filho comments on trial result: ‘Suspension starting from 105 days and ending with 45 can be considered positive’

John Textor The trial began in Plenary of the STJD this Friday with the risk of suspension for 105 days, which was the initial vote of the process rapporteur, Mauricio Neves Fonseca. He ended up punished for 45 days, of which he has already served 28, for episodes in Botafogo 3 x 4 Palmeiras in the 2023 Brazilian Championship. In addition, they will have to pay a fine of R$100,000.

The final decision was 30 days of suspension and a fine of R$50,000 for violating article 243-F of the CBJD (offense to honor) and 15 days and a fine of R$50,000 under article 258 (conduct contrary to discipline or sports ethics).

Lawyer who defended John Textor at the STJD, Michel Asseff Filho commented on the result.

– This is a case that happens a lot within the Sports Court. Tempers get heated at certain times. It was important that this discussion was brought to the Sports Court to put it in its proper place. There was a statement from John Textor, who understands that he had his reasons, an entity that feels offended, and the Sports Court has to put everything in its place and apply the penalty that it believes is correct. We start with a vote from the rapporteur, Dr. Mauricio Neves, who was giving 105 days. There was a concern about excessive sentencing, the maximum penalty for a first-time offender. It is not recommended, but I understand the positions given the repercussion of the case. Ultimately sentencing in 45 days seems reasonable to me, it can be understood by the defense because it is within the legal limits that apply to the fact. I’m not going to argue whether it’s right or wrong, but it’s reasonable because it meets what the legislation allows – explained Michel Asseff Filho, to “UOL”.

– A suspension, starting at 105 and closing after 45 days, can be considered positive. But there is no victory or defeat in the disciplinary process, everyone wants the greater good, the spectacle of football, John Textor, CBF, the court. The discussion is deeper, the essence of what I brought. Is it necessary to create a tool, a protocol, to investigate possible allegations of manipulation? When a leader becomes aware of cases, how do they take it? Does Sports Justice have the capacity today to carry out in-depth investigations? It does not have. Tools must be created for Sports Justice to act, so that the manager can speak out. The absence of this can provoke a reaction from leaders. In this case there is no victory or defeat, we all seek the common good, which is football – he completed.