The National Federation of Professional Football Athletes (Fenapaf) has repudiated John Textor, owner of Botafogo’s SAF. After the businessman complained about Fluminense’s and the federation’s attempt to veto synthetic grass pitches, the response came in strong tones.
“This gentleman has no authority whatsoever to speak on behalf of Brazilian athletes, let alone ironize by comparing athletes who play on grass pitches with animals. If synthetic grass is so good for soccer, why didn’t he put it in Crystal Palace and Lyon?” reads part of Fenapaf’s note. Read the full article at the end.
John Textor was harsh in his words and said that some pitches are “calf fields”. For this year, the CBF has not banned artificial flooring, but clubs that use the material will have to release it for training on the eve of matches. Botafogo, Athletico-PR and Palmeiras are the three Serie A teams with synthetic pitches.
For next year, however, the CBF has not confirmed whether artificial pitches will be allowed or not. Some clubs are against the ban. FIFA, for example, does not veto, but is against synthetic pitches in the World Cup. For the 2026 World Cup, some stadiums will have to make the switch.
Check out the Athletes’ Federation’s full statement
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