SAO PAULO — A Brazilian sports tribunal announced on Thursday the 12-match suspension of Red Bull Bragantino defender Gustavo Marques following sexist comments he made regarding a female referee after a Sao Paulo state league match.
In addition to the suspension, Marques has been fined 30,000 Brazilian reais (approximately $5,700) for his remarks directed at referee Daiane Muniz, following Bragantino’s 2-1 defeat against Sao Paulo during a state cup quarterfinal on February 21.
This suspension applies to all competitions governed by the Sao Paulo state soccer federation; however, it does not prevent Marques from participating in national tournaments such as the Brazilian league or the Brazilian Cup.
In a post-match interview with TNT Brazil, Marques remarked, “It was our dream to reach the semifinal or even the final, but she ruined our game. The Sao Paulo state soccer federation should reconsider appointing a woman to refereeing such a significant match.” He expressed dissatisfaction with having a female referee in high-stakes games against teams like Sao Paulo, Palmeiras, and Corinthians.
Following the backlash, Marques apologized on social media, stating, “I was tense and made remarks I shouldn’t have. I reached out to Daiane and apologized to her as well. I also asked forgiveness from her assistant, recognizing her as a woman too. I was wrong to say what I did.” The 24-year-old continued, “My wife and mother both criticized my comments. I’m taking responsibility and asking for forgiveness.”
Neither Marques nor Bragantino has made any comments regarding the ruling, but local media have reported that the club deducted 50% of Marques’ salary this month as a penalty.