Copa America: Brazilian national team protests

Brasilia –

The silence is broken, the boycott is off the table, but the indignation over the Copa America in Brazil cannot be ignored. In a manifesto published at the same time in the stories of their social networks, Neymar (29) and Co. spoke out on Wednesday morning (June 9, 2021) against the South American tournament, which was ordered into the country at short notice. “We are against the event of the Copa America, but never say no to the Brazilian Selecao,” the statement concludes.

• Brazil stepped in to host the Copa America at short notice
• The coronavirus is raging in the country ruled by Jair Bolsonaro
• The Brazilian national team speaks out against the tournament

For the publication of the open letter announced days ago, the national team of Brazil waited until after the 2-0 on Tuesday in the World Cup qualification in Paraguay, the sixth victory in the sixth game. “We know about our important (social) role, but have never refused to wear the national jersey,” said defender Marquinhos (27) immediately after the game.

The coronavirus is currently raging in Brazil, the country has a seven-day incidence of 194.1. For the population and the national team, the implementation of the Copa is completely incomprehensible.

Copa America: Association CONMEBOL massively criticized

In the communication, the Selecao actors admit that they are “dissatisfied with the way CONMEBOL has handled the Copa America” ​​and accuse the continental umbrella organization of an “inadequate process in its implementation”.

Its own association, CBF, which is currently facing a suspension of its President Rogerio Caboclo for sexual assault and bullying of an employee, and the government of the controversial head of state Jair Bolsonaro (66), who are also involved in Brazil’s hasty stepping in after the refusal of the intended co-hosts Colombia and Argentina were directly involved, however, were not mentioned by name in the opinion.

Main sponsor withdraws from Copa America

Even if the boycott of Selecao is now off the table, the Supreme Federal Court of Brazil could still overturn the Copa in a session scheduled at short notice on Thursday. The STF judges will then decide on urgent motions from opposition MPs against the sugar loaf.

Due to the negative response, a main sponsor has already announced its withdrawal. The payment card service provider Mastercard will not start any of its planned promotions during the Copa America and will only leave its lettering on banners. (sid)

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