The Globe
After the euphoria, millions of reais
Fla receives negative certificates and sponsorship arrears reach R$15 million
Márcio Tavares
It was set to be one of those radiant Mondays, with rousing celebrations for the previous day's victory over Santos, which brought Flamengo closer to the Libertadores. But it was much better: while the players and coaching staff celebrated the team's good form in the Brazilian Championship, at a party planned by a board member at a farm in Guaratiba, in Gávea, president Márcio Braga received the long-awaited CND from tax authorities. This is the Certificate of No Debts, which represents for Flamengo the release of the quotas withheld by Petrobras for a long time. In figures, it will be approximately R$15 million.
Márcio Braga was subtly excited. He received clearance certificates from the IRS regarding his debts to the INSS (National Institute of Social Security), the Treasury Department, and the Severance Indemnity Fund. Yesterday, Ricardo Hinrichsen, vice president of marketing, began negotiating with Petrobras to release the much-needed sponsorship quotas.
"After three years, ten months, and six days, we're emerging from the bankruptcy formally declared by the courts," says Márcio Braga, overjoyed. "We miraculously emerged from the hole, thanks to Saint Jude Thaddeus. Now we can move forward with our plans. We're going to implement structural reforms and the bylaws."
Marcio Braga continues.
"We're going to professionalize soccer. We'll set out to create the Sociedade Empresarial do Futebol in 2008. I'll necessarily be the president, but it will be led by hired professionals. The draft is already ready. And you can cross out Vanderlei Luxemburgo's name. Soccer will move from Gávea, which will be revitalized. The club's management will remain at the old headquarters in São Conrado. All soccer will move to Ninho do Urubu. But the first task will be to renew the contract with Petrobras, which wasn't even renewed last year due to the blockade. With the withheld sum of R$1,2 million per month, I believe we should receive, with adjustments, around R$15 million."
The major victory brought about by Flamengo's participation in Timemania (and the resulting fiscal realignment) was celebrated as much as Souza's goal on Sunday. The news even overshadowed the fact that Flamengo would be without Toró, suspended due to a yellow card, and was also at risk of being without Cristian against Atlético-PR. Not to mention the risk of having to play at the Maracanã without fans.
Signed by Flamengo from Atlético-PR in a trade involving fellow midfielder Clayton, Cristian was unable to play in the first leg of the season in Curitiba, still under Ney Franco's management. Now, the board is rushing to see him on the field on the 25th. With a contract until the end of the year—and with offers from European football—Cristian can play if Flamengo deposits the equivalent of US$500 into the Paraná club's account.
"Cristian is a priority. Joel won't give up on him now, or next year," explains Kleber Leite, vice president of football. "We'll try to convince Atlético to release his roster. We have excellent relationships with Mário Celso Petraglia and Ney Franco."
The club will have to go through the STJD on the 22nd
The promised delivery to Rubens Approbato, president of the Superior Court of Sports Justice, of the request for a stay of the 4th Disciplinary Committee's decision, which stripped Flamengo of home-field advantage for one game, has been postponed until this afternoon. Attorney Michel Assef Filho's visit to São Paulo has been postponed. Approbato said the club will be required to attend the trial on the 22nd.
"I can't comment before evaluating the case. My decision for or against will only last until the trial on the 22nd. Even though the Maracanã fans are defending Flamengo, the main responsibility before the sports court lies with the home club," Approbato clarified.
Renato Mauricio Prado
Proof of love
Flamengo fans suggest to the board that they arrange for large screens to be placed around the Maracanã stadium, so that the fans can watch the match against Atlético Paranaense close to the team and the players can feel their support upon arrival at the stadium, listening to their chants throughout the 90 minutes, if possible, with the images from outside appearing on the screens inside the field.
I don't even know if it's technically feasible or legally possible—given the penalty that requires empty stands. But it's a beautiful idea and a moving demonstration of love, that's for sure.
After the victory over Santos, many red-black fans wrote to defend Toró, who they recognize as technically limited but praise for his dedication and willingness on the field.
I admit: the player's effort against Santos was undeniable and commendable. But since Joel Santana won't give up his defensive duties (because offensively he's useless), why not drop Jaílton (preferably) or Cristian and play him as a defensive midfielder?
It's obvious that Renato Augusto plays "crooked" as a striker (he missed an easy goal at the beginning of the match) and would be much better in his real position, in the middle.
And the attack would win, with Maxi, or even Obina. In fact, the victory only came when Roger and the fans' favorite Bahian came on...
The Maracanã was beautiful, the party in the stands was spectacular and the victory came as the golden crown that the fans were waiting for.
But all this shouldn't be a dead end. In almost every section of the stadium, fans were forced to stand and watch the game—due to the overcrowding, caused by the usual carpoolers—and while there wasn't a fight in the stands this time, the same didn't happen at the exit, when—once again!—members of the Raça Rubro-Negra and Torcida Jovem fans clashed on the UERJ ramp, causing chaos, running, and panic. How long?!? The 2014 World Cup is coming...
Flamengo vice-president Kleber Leite said he decided against hiring Vanderlei Luxemburgo to be the head of Flamengo's football after hearing some opinions, including mine.
In fact, we discussed the matter. I called to ask him about the rumors, which were already circulating, and we ended up exchanging conceptual ideas about it.
I told him, among other things, that I consider Luxemburgo, without a doubt, one of the most competent technicians in the world.
But I also commented that, for the position of "manager" of Gávea football (which the club intends to create, starting next year), it seemed to me that much more than that was needed.
What would be needed, above all, would be a modern business and sporting vision and – most importantly – an ethically untouchable one.
Something that, for example, does not match the attitude taken by Vanderlei himself, when he revealed, on the day of the game against Flamengo, the preliminary approach that had been made to him for the position some time ago.
By trying to destabilize the current red-and-black leadership with such a revelation, Luxemburgo wanted to be "clever." And he ended up getting screwed, both in retail and wholesale.
He lost the game and buried, once and for all, his chances of returning to Gávea as "president" of Fla's football.
Sports Journal
The four letters of terror
STJD could leave Fla without its main factor of imbalance against Atlético-PR: the fans
Nathan de Lima and Thiago Bokel
A common sight at Mario Filho Stadium for ten years. The red-and-black fans turn out in force.
One of Flamengo's main strengths in this sensational run in the Brazilian Championship is the support of its 12th player, the great red-black nation, which has been filling the Maracanã in every game and putting on a wonderful party, the likes of which have not been seen in Rio stadiums for a long time.
However, the club's biggest adversary this year, the Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD), which has already punished Obina, Souza, Roger and Joel Santana, seems to be willing to prevent such a perfect marriage between Flamengo fans and Maracanã from continuing its honeymoon.
The STJD punished the club and its huge fan base last week with a one-game suspension due to a beer can thrown onto the pitch.
But the Fla board, which from the beginning was outraged by the auditors' decision, sent lawyer Michel Assef Filho, who is already in São Paulo, to convince the president of the STJD, Rubens Approbato, to grant a suspensive effect, which allows the match against Furacão to take place normally in the largest stadium in the world.
The meeting between Michel Assef and Approbato, previously scheduled for yesterday, will take place today. The lawyer from Flamengo appears quite confident, as the court will be in recess on the 15th due to the holiday, and therefore will likely have little time to schedule the trial for the 22nd.
"I'm optimistic about getting the stay of execution. Since the court will close on Thursday and only reopen next Wednesday, I think we have a chance of getting this stay of execution," he said.
However, even if the effect is achieved, the big decision may be postponed, as the president of the STJD confirmed in an interview with Rádio Tupi that Fla will be judged on the 22nd.
"My decision for or against will only last until the trial. The decision may or may not be validated on the 22nd," said Approbato, before adding:
"The responsibility for the game's security lies with the home club, even if the Maracanã staff assist Flamengo."
Fla receives money from Petrobras
After not receiving its sponsorship quota from Petrobras since the beginning of the year, due to tax debts, Flamengo achieved a major victory behind the scenes yesterday.
The club's press office confirmed late last night that the club had obtained clearance certificates for its super account, guarantee fund, and INSS (National Institute of Social Security). This frees the club to receive the money that was being held in court.
In the coming days, the club's executives will submit documentation to the state-owned company with the aim of obtaining R$4 million. This measure was only possible thanks to fiscal realignment, as stated by president Marcio Braga (pictured) in an official statement, due to the participation in Timemania.
With this measure, Flamengo should see financial relief in 2008, and as vice president of football Kleber Leite said, next year will be a turning point for the Gávea club. Leite even met with Marcio Braga last night to discuss what will be done in 2008.
Flamengo will no longer travel to Manaus — The friendly match that Flamengo's reserve team was scheduled to play in Manaus next Sunday has been canceled. According to the club's board, a friendly at this stage of the season would not be beneficial for the Flamengo squad. The club's vice president of football, Kleber Leite, confirmed the match's cancellation.
"We talked and decided it would be best for the group not to hold this friendly. Therefore, it's canceled," said Kleber Leite.
Flamengo's game at Maraca is synonymous with a full house
It's already been proven that the biggest stars of this Brazilian Championship are the Flamengo fans. With an average attendance of over 35 per game, Flamengo fans have yet another reason to be proud.
In addition to breaking the year's attendance record in the victory over Santos on Sunday, the number of fans in attendance (87.716) is the sixth highest in the last ten years for Flamengo games. The fourteenth highest mark belongs to the game against Grêmio, also this year (73.871).
So many achievements have earned the red-and-black fan the immortalization of the number 12 shirt, an allusion to the support from the stands that helped the team escape the relegation zone and fight for a place in the Libertadores.
The match with the largest paying audience for Flamengo games in these ten years was the team's debut in 1999, on January 20, in a friendly against Fluminense, which the Rubro-Negro won against their eternal rival, who would play in Series C that year, by 5 to 3, with 113.602 fans.
Flamengo's goals were scored by forwards Romário and Caio (twice each) and midfielder Marcelo Santos. For the Tricolor side, defender Emerson and forwards Roni and Magno Alves scored. The friendly was so successful that it was repeated the following year, with Flamengo again prevailing: 1-0.
Vasco fans recognize Fla's fifth title
The Rio de Janeiro State Government will award a trophy in recognition of Flamengo's fifth championship title at the team's next match against Atlético-PR, on November 25. The idea comes from two Vasco fans: the Secretary of Sports, Tourism and Leisure, Eduardo Paes, together with Governor Sérgio Cabral Filho.
The phrase “First Penta of Brazil” will be made on the cup, but the secretary and president of Suderj warned that it will not be a replica of the already famous trophy with the balls, but rather a new cup made by the person who makes the trophies of the Brazilian Football Confederation.
Ney Franco - The former Flamengo coach has renewed his contract with Furacão until the end of 2008. Ney Franco, who led Flamengo during the Libertadores and the team's poor start to the Brazilian Championship this year, will remain with Atlético-PR until December. The coach will face his former club for the first time on the 25th, at 18:10 pm, at Maracanã.
Dad Joel remains in the family in 2008
Affectionately called by his players as Papai Joel, the coach who arrived in the middle of this year and, in addition to saving Flamengo from the much-feared abyss, made one of the most incredible comebacks of a team in the history of the Brazilian Championship, seems to be confirmed for next year in charge of the most popular team in the country.
In a note published on the club's official website, president Márcio Braga made a point of congratulating Joel Santana and securing the coach for next season.
"Once again, I feel obliged to congratulate our players and other members of the coaching staff, in particular Professor Joel Santana, who is doing another great job at the club and who will remain with us in 2008," said the director in part of the note, dismissing the possibility of having Vanderlei Luxemburgo in charge of Flamengo in 2008.
The president also took the opportunity to confirm that Fla's football team will have a new management model.
"With Timemania and the fiscal realignment, the football department will undergo, as we had planned, a major change in its management model, with the establishment of a business corporation that will manage football and provide more agile and effective tools for the professionals who manage it," he said.
Bruno is security in decisions
Bruno flies to show that the goal in Gávea is safe
In addition to the strength of its fan base, Flamengo can boast a goalkeeper capable of turning the tide of a match. After a turbulent start to the Brazilian Championship, which was fraught with controversy surrounding his continued stay at Gávea Stadium, Bruno demonstrated his importance to the team in the second half of the season.
"The goalkeeper needs to step up at the right moments. I've been doing my best to help. Any victory deserves to be celebrated, but with caution, as we haven't reached our goal yet. We've found the right path, now we just have to follow it," Bruno assessed.
The path outlined by the Flamengo's number one began when Flamengo called its fans to its side. At this point, he cited the key difference that allows a team to quickly transform from water to wine.
"If we didn't give it our all until the end, the fans wouldn't support us. No one would want to go to the stadium to see their team lose. We were able to show that Flamengo could recover. When the fans saw that, they came to our side," explained the goalkeeper, who is not yet guaranteed a spot for 2008, as the MSI is expected to ask a high price to keep him at Gávea.
Like all the players, Bruno is worried about the possibility of the team playing behind closed doors against Atlético-PR:
“Of course, without the fans it will be more complicated, but we have to think about winning no matter what.”
Ibson as an example
Vinícius Colombiano is inspired by the club's current idol to shine in the near future
Thiago Bokel and Nathan de Lima
Considered one of the greatest hopes coming from Flamengo's youth academy, midfielder Vinícius Coimbra Colombiano, just 19 years old, born in Bangu, gave an exclusive interview to JORNAL DOS SPORTS, in which he introduces himself to Flamengo fans, tells of his arrival at the club, at just ten years old, talks about his great identification with supporter Ibson, his relationship with coach Joel Santana and about his anxiety about his debut in the professional ranks.
Jornal dos Sports — How did you get to Flamengo?\ Vinícius Colombiano — I played futsal for Bangu and a Flamengo scout came to see me because they needed a winger. I tried out, and they loved me on the first day, and I've stayed ever since.\
JS — What was your childhood team? VC — I've always been a Flamengo fan, I've never hidden that from anyone. It's my favorite club.
JS — How excited are you about making your debut with the first team? VC — I was on the bench against Internacional, but I can't wait for my first time. I've been working towards it, and when Joel needs me, I'll be ready to do the job.
JS — There are many cases of players who always played well in the youth ranks but ended up not making it in the professional ranks. How are you working to avoid that? VC — I need to be calm and patient because the transition from youth to professional is difficult. I'm aware that I'm just a kid coming into the ranks among experienced players. But I'll work hard so that when I get the opportunity to join, it's to stay.
JS — Do you consider the Malaysia Tournament to be the moment you showed you were ready to move up to the professional ranks? VC — It was definitely a showcase. Before that, we won the BH Cup, but this was my championship, especially because I was captain of a team that did very well.
JS — Last Saturday you suffered a knee injury in the OPG game against Sendas. How serious was the injury? VC — I sprained my left knee. I was a bit scared, but thank God it wasn't something I'd already had surgery for. I had a scan that didn't show anything serious. I'll be able to return to training in a week.
JS — What's it like being a role model for the youth academy kids? VC — It changes a bit, some people already look at you differently and make comments. I have a lot of friends there, so I recommend it to everyone. We are role models and we have to always set a good example.
JS — What, in your opinion, are Flamengo's greatest assets, still at the youth level and likely to bring joy to fans? YOU — There are great players like Vander, who is a very good midfielder. We just need to work on his mental health and he'll have a bright future.
JS — You've been participating in the OPG regularly. What are the team's expectations for this tournament? VC — To be champions. Here at Flamengo, we always have that obligation. We won the OPG last year, and based on our potential, I can say we'll make it again.
JS — Joel often supports the youth players. How does he treat you? VC — He always tries to encourage me and help me integrate with the group so that when they need me, I can give my best. Joel is everyone's father figure.
JS — You were approached by an English club. How did that go? Is Europe already on your mind, or would you rather make a name for yourself at Flamengo first? VC — I heard about it through my agent. Tottenham approached me, but it's been a while. I want to make a name for myself at Flamengo first. Everything has its time, but if an offer comes from abroad, I have to consider it. But first, I want to make a name for myself here.
JS — Who are your soccer idols?\ VC — Kaká and Zidane are extraordinary. I haven't seen Zico play, only on video, but if I had, he would be my idol too.\
JS — Who are your role models in this group? VC — My biggest role model is Ibson, who plays my position. I really like his style; he's experienced, he talks to me, and that's why he's a role model for me. Like him, I prefer the number 7 jersey.
JS — Of Fla's three biggest rivals, which one do you enjoy playing the most? VC — I've never lost to Vasco or Botafogo. Only to Fluminense, about three times. There's a greater rivalry with Vasco. But Fla-Flu is the one I enjoy playing the most; it's a different game.
Flamengo wins the third Regatta
Last weekend, the third regatta of the State Rowing Championship took place at Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas. Flamengo emerged as the overall winner, reducing the lead over rivals Vasco da Gama, who lead the competition, from 15 to nine points.
The regatta began on Saturday, but due to strong winds, it had to be suspended and continued on Sunday. One of the highlights was the red-and-black victory in the single sculls, where Thiago Gomes defeated Chile's Alexis Arias. Both will participate in the pre-Olympic tournament, which begins on Friday, each representing their country.
The Cruzmaltino team also excelled, particularly in the women's eight-man event. One of the most competitive events of the day, it was won by the group of Fabiana Beltrame and Camila Carvalho, two other Brazilian representatives in the Beijing qualifying tournament.
The difference between Vasco and Flamengo could still become smaller if the court punishes Vasco for possible irregularities in the registration of the two-person race in the second regatta.
Freshmen in the big classic
Some team members have never played a Vasco x Flamengo match, which will be on Friday
Rafael Oliveira
National team point guard Valtinho will make his debut in the classic
In Brazilian soccer, there are few rivalries quite like Flamengo and Vasco. While it's hard to find a rivalry like the one between the two biggest Rio fans in the country's most popular sport, it's unique in basketball. On Friday, some newcomers will have the opportunity to experience the atmosphere of this classic.
This is the case with Valtinho. The Vasco da Gama point guard has played for prestigious teams such as Ribeirão Preto (SP) and Uberlândia (MG), but, as he himself confessed, nothing compares to the traditional "classic of millions."
"I've never seen a crowd like Vasco's. They're constantly shouting and cheering us on. Their energy is so strong that it gives the players extra energy during the match. I know Flamengo's fans are like that too. It's definitely going to be a special match," he said.
Also participating in the Rio derby for the first time is Vasco coach José Carlos Vidal. Experienced, he sees the positives of a game like this.
"It's a very strong rivalry in football, but I've rarely seen it in basketball. It will be great to be part of this game because the atmosphere motivates the players. Even with some absences, I believe we'll have a good match."
Both sides\ It's not just on the Cruzmaltino side that there are newcomers. At Gávea, there are also those who can't wait to get on the court on Friday. One of them is Fernando Mineiro, who has already participated in this match, but only as a spectator.\
"I've already seen a match between the two teams and I know how exciting it is. All my teammates and I are looking forward to this game. We're training hard because we know how important this match is," he said.
Winger Hélio, who came from Uberlândia, knows what it's like to participate in a match where there is a lot of rivalry between the fans, but recognizes that a Flamengo and Vasco match is special.
"In Minas Gerais there is a big feud between the teams from the interior and those from the capital, but nothing on the same scale as this game."
NATIONAL - The CBB released the 2008 National Basketball Championship schedule. Flamengo debuts on January 6th against Lajeado (RS).
Sergio Du Bocage
Here's What You Wanted!
Fla 12
Sergio du Bocage bocage@jsports.com.br
I don't believe anyone involved in soccer who declares they don't support any team. Everyone—player, coach, referee, and journalist—has a favorite team. Professional work can shape this passion, adapt it to needs, even stifle it at certain times. But the past cannot be erased.
I say this to tell you that, when I was a kid, I would accompany my older cousins to Maracanã to cheer for Flamengo. Luís Mauro, Renato, and Hamílton, who are club advisors, and Geraldo, a former Flamengo rower who is no longer with us, lived in Glória, and it was from there that we would head to the stadium, waving huge flags. A little older, I became a founding member of the Flamengo 12 fan club, which proclaimed itself "the fan club that plays."
Of course, as a journalism intern, I've distanced myself from the fans and the stands. But when I see what Flamengo fans have been doing in recent games, I perfectly remember what it was like in the past. In the late 70s and early 80s, Maracanã was like that too. Or even: there was celebration for the red-and-blacks and other fans, too, because Vasco, Botafogo, and Fluminense—the latter with its powder puff that made you cough but was very beautiful—filled the stadium just as much.
Last week, I went to Maracanã and took about 20 friends, all FIFA journalists who were in Rio working on the Beach Soccer World Cup, to watch Flamengo vs. Corinthians. The group included French, Spanish, Swiss, Argentinian, Tahitian, Irish, Italian, and Brazilian from another state. Everyone was dazzled, especially by the stadium and the fans. They returned to their hometowns wearing Flamengo jerseys and pledging their undying love.
I've always heard that a fan base grows when a team wins titles and has a star player as a role model. But I think that, currently, this growth is coming from within. The fans themselves are creating new followers. Going to the stadium to cheer and break records has become an attraction. Flamengo fans deserve congratulations. More than the players and coaching staff, they deserve a spot in the Libertadores. And the Maracanã scoreboard was absolutely right when it recognized that Flamengo fans are the champions of the current Brasileirão.
Luiz Mendes
Stories of the Ball
Things that favor Fla
Luiz Mendes lmendes@jsports.com.br
It was Rágio Globo sports reporter Antonio Carlos Duarte who came up with the phrase - "Just as there are things that only happen to Botafogo, there are things that only benefit Flamengo. At least in 2007, that's how it's been."
I don't need to enumerate the events that have befallen Botafogo, from the Campeonato Carioca, through the Copa do Brasil and Copa Sudamericana, not to mention the Campeonato Brasileiro itself. The Glorioso had a remarkable upward trend and then entered a downward one. Flamengo, on the other hand, teetered on the brink of relegation and then suddenly made a dizzying rise, becoming, as it is today, one of the strongest contenders for the Copa Libertadores.
The team began plotting its destiny to success when it managed to move its games from Maracanã to after the Pan American Games, and proceeded to win all its home matches. After that, the parallel results began to favor it, accumulating a large number of points in each round. There was one in which the red-and-black team won a match against São Paulo, Grêmio lost to Figueirense (at the Olímpico Stadium), and Palmeiras was defeated by Juventude at Palestra Itália. Only then were they credited with nine points.
In this last round, Flamengo earned no less than twelve points: the three they earned against Santos and the three Santos lost in that same game. Yes, because Santos is a direct rival for a spot in the Libertadores. Another three points came from São Paulo, already qualified, winning against Grêmio. Finally, Internacional's victory over Cruzeiro, adding three more points—as I said, twelve in total.
Anyone who saw Flamengo at Mineirão Stadium, away from their fans, taking a real walk with Cruzeiro, has to believe in the positive thinking theory championed by Paulo Coelho and other esoteric writers. They claim that if a crowd thinks the same thing en masse, it creates a largely favorable aura. This makes the red-and-black fans Flamengo's best players.
O Dia
Flamengo: A downpour of happiness
Two years after arriving at Gávea, the player celebrates his good form and the support of the fans
Marluci Martins
Rio - His transfer to Flamengo two years ago changed Toró's life: he bought a house for his parents—worth R$180—but he was frowned upon by Fluminense and struggled to adapt to his new club. For a few days now, Toró has been experiencing something unprecedented: the fans chant his name at the Maracanã stadium.
The comeback, after so much controversy surrounding his transfer, has someone's hand. It was Joel Santana who benched the player, overlooked by Ney Franco and questioned by the fans who now applaud him.
"Joel is the man. He knew me from the Fluminense youth academy, and when he arrived at Flamengo, he asked me where the goal-scoring player was. I explained that I was playing as a defensive midfielder, a position I wasn't suited to," recalls Toró, a standout player in the 1-0 victory over Santos.
With Joel, the player regained his confidence. He gave up sandwiches and lost at least four pounds: "My body fat percentage, which was 13%, dropped to 11%. Only then did I discover that being lighter meant I was more productive."
Toró realized he was more relaxed than ever. It was time to exorcise the discouragement that had set in before the Libertadores—when, after registration was complete, he learned he was out of the running:
"I had started both games in the Copa do Brasil final. I had won the championship. And I was really discouraged when Ney Franco didn't register me."
Toró holds no grudges against Ney. While he had to learn to play as a defensive midfielder, he's become a complete midfielder. And while he missed the Copa Libertadores, he's racing to fulfill his dream, albeit somewhat late.
"I learned to mark and I know how to steal balls. Eventually, I'll score again, but why worry about that when we already have Souza and Obina?" says the player, who in his first year playing futsal for Flu, in 94, scored 75 goals.
That's when he became known as Toró (of goals). A nickname, incidentally, recently incorporated into his name. Rafael Toró Ferreira Francisco, 21, has nine siblings. He's the son of Francisco, a janitor, and Maria, a housewife. He's married to Luana. He's now a potential favorite among the red-and-black fans, who will miss him in the match against Atlético-PR. Toró received his third yellow card. Poor Joel...
The President of the Superior Court of Justice (STJD) is analyzing today the request to suspend the punishment against Fla.
Marluci Martins
Rio - Flamengo has two chances to avoid the punishment that forces it to face Atlético-PR on the 25th, behind closed doors: 1) a suspensive effect so that the determination is only fulfilled next year; 2) being acquitted in the trial at the full STJD, on the 22nd.
Flamengo's lawyer, Michel Assef Filho, traveled to São Paulo yesterday, but only today should he meet with the president of the STJD, Rubens Approbato, who does not seem to see much chance of Flamengo being acquitted in the case involving the beer can thrown by the fans at the refereeing trio, after the match against Grêmio.
"My decision, whether for or against, will only last until the trial. The decision may or may not be validated on the 22nd. The code is clear, and the responsibility for game security lies with the home club," said Approbato in an interview with Rádio Tupi.
Still, Michel Assef Filho doesn't consider himself defeated. He will fight to obtain the stay of proceedings this week, pushing the trial on the 22nd to the back burner.
"Preparing for a football match goes beyond selling tickets. To comply with the Fan Statute, the club must take numerous steps. If we can obtain the stay of execution now, even if the appeal is not heard,
proceeding on the 22nd, the fans will be able to watch the game”, explained Michel, considering the date of the trial very close to the match, with tickets already negotiated.
PARTY OUTSIDE
Flamengo fans are already taking precautions. Even if they're barred from the very celebration that could secure their place in the Copa Libertadores, the Flamengo fans will still be creating a positive movement for their team near Maracanã on the 25th. The idea is to organize a sort of Fla-Micareta parade outside the stadium during the match against Atlético-PR. The Flamengo fans plan to install a giant screen and hire electric trios to ensure the celebration of their place in next year's Copa Libertadores.
President guarantees Joel in 2008
In an official statement released to the press yesterday, president Márcio Braga assured that Joel Santana will remain at Flamengo next year. He also confirmed that the club's football structure will undergo a restructuring.
"With Timemania and the fiscal realignment, the football department will undergo, as we had planned, a major change in its management model, with the establishment of a Business Society that will manage football and provide more agile and effective tools for the professionals who manage it," the statement said.
Fla will win the fifth title from the Rio government
Flamengo will be honored by the Rio de Janeiro government with a trophy for winning five national titles. The guarantee is from the Secretary of Sports, Tourism, and Leisure, Eduardo Paes. The idea, in conjunction with Governor Sérgio Cabral Filho, is to create a trophy with the phrase "Brazil's First Five-Time Champion," which will be presented to the team at the match against Atlético-PR on the 25th at the Maracanã stadium.
According to the website globoesporte.com, the Rio government is contacting the same artist who makes the CBF trophies to create the trophy for the fifth Brazilian title.
"It won't be a replica of the trophy. We'll make a trophy. It's a recognition from the government and the people of Rio de Janeiro of Flamengo's achievement," says Paes, a Vasco fan who doesn't mind the tribute. "In these times, there's no such thing as rooting for one club or another. We need to have the greatness to recognize Flamengo's merit."
THE MANY CHANCES OF CLASSIFICATION
Tomorrow, Flamengo fans should be rooting for Palmeiras in their match against Fluminense at Parque Antártica. As long as the Tricolor wins, Mengão will mathematically secure a spot in the 2008 Copa Libertadores with a win and a draw in the final two rounds. The team would reach 62 points and would be unbeaten. See the red-and-black possibilities:
1) Just win your remaining games — Atlético-PR (at home) and Náutico (away).
2) With a win and a draw, the team from Gávea would reach 62 points and, in this case, would only lose the spot if Santos (plays Paraná away and Fluminense at home), Cruzeiro (Sport away and América-RN at home) and Palmeiras (Fluminense at home, Inter away and Atlético-MG at home) win all their games.
3) Winning only one game and losing the other, Flamengo would reach 61 points and would have to hope that Palmeiras loses at least one of the three remaining games and does not make up the difference in goal difference, or that Cruzeiro also loses one of its games, or that Santos loses one and draws the other.
4) By drawing one game and losing the other, they would reach 59 points and would only secure the spot if Cruzeiro didn't win any games and Palmeiras didn't win two of their three games. Not to mention that Grêmio (playing América-RN away and Corinthians at home) would also have a chance, winning their last two games.
5) If they lose both games, they would have 58 points and would have to hope that Cruzeiro loses both of their games, Palmeiras doesn't win any of their three (they could even draw all of them), Grêmio loses one of their two remaining games and Botafogo doesn't win two.
Sports Gazette
Rio de Janeiro government stirs up controversy and offers trophy to 'penta' Fla
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - The battle with São Paulo for the so-called "cup of balls" will take a new chapter at Flamengo in the coming days. This is because the red-and-black club will receive a commemorative trophy from the Rio de Janeiro State Government for winning the Copa União in 1987. The CBF officially recognizes Sport as the Brazilian champion that year.\ The idea of the Secretary of Sports, Tourism and Leisure, Eduardo Paes, and Governor Sérgio Cabral, is to produce a trophy (without any reference to the ball artifact) with the inscription "Brazil's first fifth title", which would be presented on the 25th, before the game against Atlético-PR, at Maracanã.\
Paes, also president of Suderj, revealed that the government will contact the same designer hired by the CBF to produce the ball cup.
The Brasileirão regulations stated that the first club to win the competition five times would definitively take the famous trophy of the 1970s and 80s. As the CBF does not recognize the Copa União, it locked the artifact in a safe at Caixa Econômica Federal after the red-black title of 1992. São Paulo is the first club to achieve the national penta (at least without controversy) and the entity confirmed possession of the balls, much to the complaints of the Cariocas.
Uninvolved in the dispute, but nominated as the 1987 champion, Sport also entered the dispute between Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, paying out of its own pocket for the installation of a billboard celebrating the tricolor's 'penta' title on the streets of Recife.
Flamengo's good run excites president Márcio Braga\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - With a strong run, Flamengo managed to escape the relegation zone and finished the penultimate round of the Brazilian Championship in third place. The recovery and the proximity of qualification for the Copa Libertadores encouraged Flamengo president Márcio Braga, who issued an official statement on Monday congratulating the players and coach Joel Santana. The director also made a point of thanking Flamengo fans for their support. Against Santos last Sunday, nearly 90 Flamengo fans were at the Maracanã to cheer on the Rio de Janeiro team.
Flamengo takes advantage of the break to take exams\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Taking advantage of the 15-day suspension of the Brazilian Championship due to the national team's 2010 World Cup qualifying matches, Flamengo's doctors will use the next few days to evaluate the squad, already looking ahead to the 2008 season. This Monday, the players who didn't play against Santos underwent their first exams. Those who played against Santos will begin their evaluations this Tuesday. Flamengo's legal department is currently preparing a request for a stay of execution to be submitted to Rubens Approbato, president of the Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD). With this, Flamengo hopes to secure clearance to play Atlético-PR in front of fans at the Maracanã. The club was punished for incidents that occurred in the match against Grêmio on October 21st. The appeal of this case has been scheduled for the 22nd.
Meanwhile, Flamengo will be honored Tuesday night by the Rio de Janeiro City Council. On Thursday, the club will celebrate its 112th anniversary. During the ceremony, Flamengo athletes will receive Pan-American Sports Merit medals from Councilwoman Patricia Amorim.
Souza and Ronaldo Angelim celebrate overcoming\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - As part of the commitment coach Joel Santana expects from his team, one player at Flamengo is a prime example. After suffering with an Achilles tendon injury in his right foot all week, striker Souza took the field and scored the winning goal against Peixe this Sunday. "I was experiencing pain in my tendon, but I underwent intensive physical therapy all last week and, thank God, I was able to get on the field and didn't feel a thing the entire game," said the Flamengo's top scorer.
Defender Ronaldo Angelim, who was sidelined after feeling unwell in a game against Corinthians, was included against Santos despite having been out of training for about ten days. On the field, the defender managed to neutralize the opposition's attack.
"Joel and Ronaldo (the fitness coach) trusted me, and I'm very happy to have helped Flamengo. I hadn't trained in a few days, but I had a good workout on Friday and also felt good in the practice match on Saturday, when it was decided I could play," said Angelim, who was paired with captain Fábio Luciano.
Joel in no rush to renew with Flamengo\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Once again considered a savior at Flamengo, having lifted the team from second-to-last place in the Brazilian Championship to a good position to qualify for the Copa Libertadores, coach Joel Santana still doesn't know if he'll stay at Gávea next season. Amid speculation that the Rio de Janeiro club has approached Vanderlei Luxemburgo, the Flamengo coach says he's calm and is in no rush to negotiate his future. "I've been talking to Kléber (Leite, vice president of football), but this is a topic that will be discussed at the end of the Brazilian Championship. Our focus can't stray now. Everything will be resolved at the right time," Joel assured.
Joel Santana's concern is not letting off-field issues derail his team in the two remaining games of the Brazilian Championship. Therefore, the coach is also trying to separate the squad from the euphoria that gripped the fans after the victory over Santos last Sunday. With the result, Flamengo reached 58 points and has over an 80% chance of qualifying for the Copa Libertadores, according to some mathematicians.
"We have to face this situation calmly and patiently. If we lose to Atlético-PR and Náutico and don't secure our spot in the Libertadores, all the effort we've put in so far will have been for nothing. That's why we need to keep our feet on the ground and keep working hard."
PeléNet
President of the Superior Court of Justice (STJD) disagrees with the allegation of Flamengo's lawyer
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Rubens Approbato Machado, president of the Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD), does not seem willing to accept the arguments that will be used by Flamengo's defense, in relation to the loss of home field advantage, which will be initially fulfilled in the game against Atlético-PR, on the 25th, at Maracanã, for the 37th round of the Brazilian Championship.
The argument used by Flamengo's lawyer is that the club cannot be held responsible for anything that happens in the stands, since Maracanã is administered by the state government, through Suderj.
"The code is clear. The home club is responsible. It must take all necessary measures. Even if Suderj holds itself accountable before the Sports Court, the home club is to blame," said Approbato in an interview with Rádio Tupi.
On Monday, the club's vice president of football, Michel Assef Filho, filed a request for a stay of execution with the Superior Court of Justice (STJD), which will be evaluated on Tuesday. On the 22nd, the second instance of the case will be heard, which will issue a final ruling on the case.
The Rubro-Negro is being tried for what happened during the 2-0 victory over Grêmio on October 21st at Maracanã, in the 32nd round of the Brazilian Championship. On that occasion, a fan threw a full beer can and a firecracker from the stands toward referee Sálvio Spínola Fagundes Filho, who reported the incident in the match report. The Rio de Janeiro club was charged under Article 213 (failure to take measures capable of preventing and suppressing disorder in its sports arena).
Flamengo president says Joel Santana stays in 2008
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
In an official statement, Flamengo president Márcio Braga thanked the fans and players for their support in the team's comeback in the Brazilian Championship. He also said that Joel Santana will continue as the team's coach in 2008.
After highlighting the unconditional support from the stands and the athletes' dedication, the director revealed he had to highlight the contribution of "Professor Joel Santana, who does other great work at the club." On this occasion, he referenced 2005, when the coach saved the team from relegation.
Last week, a possible deal between the Gávea club and Santos coach Vanderlei Luxemburgo surfaced. This was, however, denied on Sunday after Santos' 1-0 victory over Santos at Maracanã.
Márcio Braga also highlighted the work, according to the club's president, of "amateur" executives, such as vice-president of football Kleber Leite and director of football Marcos Braz. He also recalled the crucial role played by so-called "professional" executives Eduardo Manhães (executive director), Isaías Tinoco (football supervisor), and Flavio Pereira (director of revenue).
The president's final topic was far from complimentary. He noted that 2008 will be a year of major changes for the club's soccer, which will become fully professional and will experience a much better future with the adoption of Timemania and fiscal realignment.
In Fla's accounts, one more victory is enough for Libertadores
From UOL Sports\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Third in the Brazilian Championship with 58 points, Flamengo has a strong chance of competing in the Copa Libertadores next season. Flamengo believes a win in the next two matches will be enough for the club to return to international competition.
"I believe that one victory is enough for us, but we have to be very careful not to be surprised," warned striker Souza, who scored the winning goal in the 1-0 victory over Santos last night at Maracanã.
The same line of reasoning was implemented by coach Joel Santana. He warned of the difficulties Flamengo will face in its clashes with Atlético-PR (home) and Náutico (away).
"I think we can do another positive result. We need to keep our feet on the ground, because we could lose to Atlético-PR and Náutico and the dream could turn into a nightmare," he warned.
Joel Santana disagrees with Flamengo's punishment
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo coach Joel Santana deeply regretted the punishment suffered by the Rubro-Negro, who were sentenced in the first instance with the loss of a home field advantage. If the Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD) decision is upheld in the trial on the 22nd, the team will have to face Atlético-PR behind closed doors on the 25th at Maracanã, in the 37th round of the Brazilian Championship.
"I was worried about this punishment. They shouldn't punish a team that puts so many people in the stadium. I think it's complicated," said the manager, referring to the high number of fans attending Flamengo's games.
The Gávea club's legal vice president, Michel Assef Filho, filed a request for a stay of proceedings this Monday, claiming that Rubro-Negro cannot be held responsible for the actions of fans at Maracanã, as the stadium is managed by Suderj.
Flamengo is being tried for what happened during its 2-0 victory over Grêmio on October 21st at Maracanã Stadium, in the 32nd round of the Brazilian Championship. On that occasion, a fan threw a full beer can and a firecracker from the stands toward referee Sálvio Spínola Fagundes Filho, who reported the incident in the match report. The Rio de Janeiro club was charged under Article 213 (failure to take measures capable of preventing and suppressing disorder in its sports arena).
BalloonSport
'When it premieres, I won't have any excuses'
Kléberson says the adaptation period will be crucial to achieving success at Flamengo
Eduardo Peixoto
Kléberson awaits the moment of his debut at Flamengo
Kléberson's Flamengo debut is scheduled for early February. Until then, he'll have more than 120 days of adaptation. A period of time that, according to him, will leave him no room for excuses. He just needs to arrive, join the team, and rock.
While waiting for the moment to effectively participate in the Flamengo team, the "luxury fan" reveals to GLOBOESPORTE.COM that he already feels like a Flamengo fan at heart, says he is not worried about the club's reputation as a bad payer and hopes to participate in the filet mignon called the Copa Libertadores.
"I really hope that happens. It would be good for Flamengo. I think I'd be a good reinforcement (laughs)," he says.
Check out the full interview with the five-time world champion midfielder:
GLOBOESPORTE.COM: What's it like to experience the team's daily life during this phase of its rise in the Brazilian Championship without being able to take the field? Kléberson: Oh, I experience the whole atmosphere, whether in victories or defeats. Joel's words motivate me immensely, but I can't do anything. I try to help in any way I can. I'm fully committed to Flamengo.
But when was the turning point? The key moment was the match against São Paulo. The team's confidence after beating the league leaders was immense. Flamengo's arrival in the Copa Libertadores was unexpected for many, much less for the group. The players worked hard to achieve this.
If things continue to go this way, you'll probably have the pleasure of competing in the Copa Libertadores...\ I really hope that happens. It would be good for Flamengo, for the project the club is developing. I think I'd be a good addition (laughs).\
And what about the fan turnout? You went to a few games and felt the passion of the red-and-blacks. To play for Flamengo, you have to love the club. And I'm feeling that in a short time. I'm happy to know I made the right choice.
In fact, many people were certain you'd be transferred to Santos. Why did you choose a different destination? I spoke with Kléber Leite about three months ago. He presented me with a different project. Flamengo has a jersey and fans. That means a lot. When I was a kid, I always dreamed of playing here.
"To play for Flamengo, you have to love the club. And I'm feeling that way in a short time. I'm happy to know I made the right choice."
Kléberson, the passionate one
Didn't the club's reputation as a bad payer make you think twice?
I'm at a point in my career where the salary delay is irrelevant. I need to get back on track. The last few years have been tough. I lost time, and now I want to make up for it. Flamengo and Rio de Janeiro will support me on this journey.
At Gávea, they said you signed with Rubro-Negro because Vanderlei Luxemburgo asked you to. Is that true? I heard that too. But it had nothing to do with Luxemburgo. I talked to him when Santos tried to sign me. We never touched on the subject of Flamengo. But people started making connections.
When he was introduced, Kléberson was carried in the arms of fans
Your contract runs until the end of 2008. Kléber Leite stated right at his presentation that he intends to renew it for a longer period. Do you think the same way? Yes, as soon as we resolve this issue with FIFA, we'll sit down and draw up a contract for another four years. I want to become a Carioca (laughs).
Will this long adjustment period before my debut benefit him? I don't even have anything to say. It will be four months. When I debut, I won't have any excuses. I hope to live up to everything they expect of me. And also to all the affection I've received from the club and the fans since I arrived.
Unlike many players, you arrived at Flamengo underweight. How is the weight gain going? I'm trying to regain muscle mass during this training period. I'm taking a lot of supplements, like whey protein, and doing weight training. But it's complicated. Because I gain weight and lose it all during training, under that moon. I'm 67 kg. In 2002, I competed in the World Cup at 69, 70 kg. I still need a bit more explosiveness, but in the preseason I can reach my ideal level.
Daddy Kléberson and the illusory good life
Player takes advantage of his time off to dedicate himself to his family. But anxiety gets in the way.
Eduardo Peixoto
Kléberson, with his wife Dayane and son Klebinho: fully adapted to Rio\ The official language in the lobby of the luxurious hotel, located in Rio de Janeiro's west zone, is English. While tourists are planning their visit to the city, four-year-old Klebinho runs through the lobby. Right behind him, his father tries to protect him from falling.\
The worried dad is Kléberson, Flamengo's first - and celebrated - reinforcement for the 2008 season. Suspended by FIFA because of a legal battle with Besiktas, from Turkey, he will only be able to play in February.
While waiting, he lives a false "good life." His daily workload doesn't exceed four hours (and that's on full-time training days). Business trips and training camps are also suspended. In other words, Kléberson can enjoy his weekends. But who said that's enough?
"When a guy plays a lot, he wants rest. When he's idle, he wants to play. Human beings are never satisfied. I miss the trips, the concentration. The worst moment is game day. I get tense and impatient. I wish I was there with my teammates," declares the 29-year-old player.
But all that's left is to wait. In the coming days, the five-time world champion plans to rent an apartment in Barra da Tijuca. For now, his routine is simple: waking up late, enjoying the hotel pool, and pampering his son Kléberson Willians and his wife Dayane, who is four months pregnant with Daphine.
praieiro
From his room, he has a small view of the beach, a place he loves.
"Sometimes, when I get home from training, I take my son for a walk on the boardwalk. The other day, we went to Grumari beach and had some delicious fish. Rio de Janeiro is wonderful and is helping me a lot during this time without games. If I stay at Flamengo for another four years, my son will want to become a surfer," he jokes.
Klebinho is inseparable from his father. Every step he takes is under Kléberson's watchful eye.
Kléberson no longer misses the opportunity to go to Flamengo's training session in Gávea.
Whether it was on the playground or at the hotel reception, while he was giving an interview, his son hit his back on the sofa and cried.
"Did it hurt? Come here to Daddy. It's over, it's over," says the father, as he picks up the child.
Dayane knows that her husband's near-full-time presence at home has an expiration date. And she's also distressed to see him away from the field. Kléberson's last match was in April of this year.
"It's easy for me, but very difficult for him. I don't want to see him at home away from the field. My husband needs to play to be completely happy," she says.
Flamengo fans agree and wait.
Kléberson in Europe: cemetery, sheep...
Player experiences curious situations in England and Turkey: 'I was a bit helpless there'
Eduardo Peixoto
Kléberson says he became a wooden leg in Türkiye
Last Thursday, Kléberson and the Flamengo squad went to the Church of Saint Jude Thaddeus to thank the club's patron saint for their promotion in the Brazilian Championship. A relief for the midfielder. During his time in Turkey, the Besiktas delegation was forced to visit and participate in less comfortable situations, such as going to the cemetery or witnessing the slaughter of sheep.
In England, where he lived for two years, he also experienced some curious situations. He arrived at Manchester United alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and...Djemba-Djemba. A Nigerian loser.
- I kept thinking: wow, in Brazil there are so many good football players who can't even get a spot on a professional team, and Manchester signs a guy like that. But he was fun - he recalls.
Discover some of Kléberson's stories in Europe:
Ghost fans. And excited!
"I don't know how Old Trafford gets so full during Manchester games. That city is a ghost town. There's nothing to do. And the funniest thing is that during the games they celebrate the tackles much more than the goals.
I'm not much of a sliding tackler. But when I knocked opponents away, the guys were ecstatic."
Djemba-Djemba and Cristiano Ronaldo
"We arrived in Manchester together. Ronaldo is really cool. We always had barbecues and I got along really well with his dad. When I left, he came to live in my house.
As for Djemba-Djemba... I kept thinking: wow, in Brazil there are so many good football players who can't even get a spot on a professional team and Manchester signs a bad guy like that. But he was fun."
Cemetery
Kléberson in his Besiktas days. Curious stories from Turkey\ "In Turkey, at the beginning of the season, we were taken to a cemetery in Istanbul. We went to the grave of (Mustafa Kemal) Atatürk's brother, one of the great names in their history. They said he was a fanatical Besiktas fan and so they asked his spirit for protection."\
macabre ritual
"The Turks are very attached to religion. Their beliefs are very strong. Sometimes, they would sacrifice sheep in front of us. They would take the animal and cut off its head. Then, they would rub some of the blood on the players' faces. They said it was to cleanse the body.
Foreigners were not required to receive blood. We remained inside the bus, writhing in agony at the situation."
Pereba
"Besiktas is very disorganized. They even sign good foreigners. But there are only five. The other six are Turkish. That's where it gets complicated. Fenerbahçe and Galatasaray get the good ones and, I don't know why, Besiktas gets the bad ones.
I was getting a bit of a mess there. The level was so bad that I was left with no legs. I looked at my moves and thought: 'I have to get out of here no matter what' (laughs)."
Flamengo fans will receive the State Cup
Rubro-negros win prize in 2007 and secretary reveals creation of contest in 2008
Flamengo fans celebrated at Maracanã
The Flamengo fans' celebration at Maracanã will be honored by the Rio de Janeiro government. Secretary of Sports, Tourism, and Leisure Eduardo Paes revealed that Flamengo fans will win a trophy for their performance in the stands. He also stated that, starting in 2008, a contest will be launched to choose the most enthusiastic fans in the state.
Paes stated that several criteria will be used to select the best fans. Fewer broken chairs, fewer broken toilets, fewer fights, more songs, more celebration... These are just some of the factors that will award the prize to Rio de Janeiro's most enthusiastic fans.
"We're going to create a trophy for the best fans of the year. We'll choose those who fought the least, broke the fewest chairs and bathrooms. We'll create a trophy for the Maracanã's number 12 team and develop the criteria for this competition next year. This year, Flamengo's fans made the difference at Maracanã," says Eduardo Paes.
Trial on the 22nd decides Fla's life
If the club is found guilty, the suspensive effect of the President of the STJD will be of no use.
Flamengo's lawyer, Michel Assef Filho, may even be able to obtain a stay of execution this Tuesday from the Superior Court of Sports Justice. However, the fate of the red-and-black team will only be decided on the 22nd, when the club will be tried in the full Superior Court of Justice (STJD) for a can thrown onto the pitch during the match against Grêmio on October 21st.
The president of the STJD, Rubens Approbato, confirmed this Monday that Flamengo will be judged on the 22nd and that his decision may or may not be confirmed in full.
"My decision for or against will only last until the trial. The decision may or may not be validated on the 22nd. The code is clear, and the responsibility for game security lies with the home club," Approbato said in an interview with Rádio Tupi.
Rubens Approbato also stated that the attitude of the president of Suderj, Eduardo Paes, of taking the blame for the fan's behavior will not have any effect on the trial, which will take place next week.
- Even though the Maracanã staff help Flamengo, the main responsibility before the Sports Court lies with the home club - says the president of the STJD.
In the match against Grêmio, referee Sálvio Spínola Fagundes reported in the match report that a beer can was thrown onto the field as the refereeing team was heading to the locker room. In the trial, held last week, Flamengo ended up receiving a one-game suspension. As a result, the match against Atlético-PR at Maracanã would be played behind closed doors.
The Rio de Janeiro government will award the fifth title to Flamengo
Artist who designs CBF trophies will be sought after by Sérgio Cabral and Eduardo Paes
Marcio Iannacca
The ball cup should go to Morumbi, but Fla will also have its fifth trophy
Flamengo and its red-and-black fans can now celebrate. The Rio de Janeiro government will honor the club with a trophy for winning five national titles. The Secretary of Tourism, Sports, and Leisure, Eduardo Paes, has guaranteed this. The idea, in conjunction with Governor Sérgio Cabral, is to create a trophy with the phrase "Brazil's First Five-Time Champion," which will be presented to the team at the match against Atlético-PR on the 25th at the Maracanã.
The secretary and president of Suderj, Eduardo Paes, confirms the information and reveals that the government is contacting the same artist who makes the CBF trophies to create the trophy for Flamengo.
"It won't be a replica of the fifth-time championship trophy. We're going to make a trophy. We're contacting the very person who makes the trophies for the CBF. It's a recognition from the government and the people of Rio de Janeiro of Flamengo's achievement," says Paes.
A Vasco fan, the secretary doesn't care about the tribute.
"In these times, there's no such thing as rooting for one club or another. We need to have the courage to recognize Flamengo's merit, and it's a source of pride for Rio de Janeiro. My opinion is the same as the governor's," says Paes, who will finalize all the details of the Flamengo trophy in a meeting this Tuesday.
Fla will once again receive sponsorship from Petrobras
Club obtains negative debt certificates from the government and alleviates financial chaos
Marcio Iannacca
Flamengo's board secured a victory away from the field. This Monday, the club received clearance certificates from the super-revenue, INSS, and the guarantee fund. From now on, the club will be able to receive sponsorship funds from Petrobras again. The club's executives will submit the documentation to the state-owned oil company and expect to receive approximately R$4 million in the coming days.
Since 2004, Flamengo has been plagued by sponsorship issues. During president Marcio Braga's first year in office, the club went 11 months without pay. Players went four months without pay.
GLOBOESPORTE.COM, which reported the news on October 28, contacted president Marcio Braga, who was unable to answer the phone due to a meeting. On Monday, the director issued an official statement announcing that the club had successfully "achieved its fiscal realignment" thanks to Flamengo's participation in Timemania. The statement already hinted at Flamengo's victory off the field.
Marcio Braga confirms Joel in 2008
Like Kléber Leite, president of Fla says the coach will remain in Gávea
Marcio Braga guarantees Joel at Fla
If it's up to president Marcio Braga, coach Joel Santana will remain as Flamengo's coach in 2008. In a note published on the club's official website, the director congratulated the coach and announced the name of the team's manager for the next season.
- Once again, I feel obliged to congratulate our players and other members of the coaching staff, in particular Professor Joel Santana, who is doing another great job at the club and who will remain with us in 2008 - says the director, dismissing any possibility of having Vanderlei Luxemburgo in charge of Flamengo next season.
Marcio Braga endorsed the words of Flamengo's vice-president of football, Kléber Leite, who 15 days ago also confirmed Joel Santana as the 2008 coach. In addition to praising the coach, the president confirmed that football will have a new management model.
- Next year, with Timemania and the fiscal realignment, the football department will undergo, as we had planned, a major change in its management model, with the formation of a business corporation that will manage football and provide more agile and effective tools to the professionals who administer it - reveals Marcio Braga.
Joel ap