Brazil Condemns Conmebol President’s Controversial Remarks on Racism
The Brazilian Government condemned Conmebol President Alejandro Dominguez’s comparison of a Libertadores Cup without Brazilian teams to “Tarzan without Cheetah”. They criticized Conmebol for inadequately addressing racism in football. Dominguez apologized, claiming his remarks were misunderstood. Brazil continues to advocate for stronger anti-racism measures and better support for marginalized communities in sports.
The Brazilian Government, led by President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, has publicly condemned remarks made by Alejandro Dominguez, the President of the South American Football Confederation (Conmebol). Dominguez compared a Libertadores Cup without Brazilian teams to “Tarzan without Cheetah,” which resulted in criticism from Brazil, particularly regarding Conmebol’s inadequate efforts to combat racism in football.
In response to Brazil’s calls for stronger anti-racism measures, Dominguez apologized, asserting that his remark was meant as a harmless idiom. This controversy follows Conmebol’s sanctioning of Cerro Porteño for racist incidents during a match, amplifying demands for stricter racism policies in the sport.
The Brazilian Government issued a statement, emphasizing, “The Brazilian government repudiates in the strongest terms the statements made by Alejandro Dominguez,” highlighting Conmebol’s failure to implement effective measures against racism. The statement was supported by several Brazilian ministries committed to promoting racial equality and combating discrimination in sports.
Furthermore, the Brazilian government has urged Conmebol and South American National Football Federations to decisively address issues of racism and discrimination, advocating for increased access to sports for marginalized communities. It remains dedicated to initiatives that foster racial equality in all forms of sports.
After a proposal from Palmeiras Club, a Brazilian team affected by racism, to withdraw from Conmebol, Dominguez was questioned about the prospect of a Libertadores Cup without Brazilian clubs. He humorously remarked, “It would be like Tarzan without the Cheetah, impossible,” provoking further discussions on the treatment of Brazilian football.
During a Conmebol event, Dominguez acknowledged the racism issue within football and committed to enforcing sanctions against racist behavior. He subsequently expressed his apologies for the remarks, insisting that they were not intended to demean anyone and reaffirmed Conmebol’s dedication to inclusive and fair soccer.
In summary, the Brazilian Government has taken a firm stance against Alejandro Dominguez’s remarks while highlighting Conmebol’s shortcomings in addressing racism. Dominguez’s apologies underscore a growing awareness of these issues, yet Brazil’s insistence on stronger anti-racism measures reflects ongoing tension within South American football. The commitment to promoting racial equality remains essential as Brazil navigates its relationship with Conmebol and the broader football community.
Original Source: en.mercopress.com
