Alejandro Domínguez said that Libertadores without Brazilian teams is like ‘Tarzan without cheetah’; After the negative repercussion, he publicly manifested himself apologizing
who occupies the presidency of, took the initiative to send a letter to, along with the Libra (Brazilian Football League) and the Forte União League (LFU), requesting more severe punishments for incidents of racism in football. This action was motivated by comments made by, President of Conmebol, who used the expression “Tarzan without cheetah” when addressing the boycott of Brazilian clubs to Libertadores.
“It is not possible that even after the case of racism of which the Palmeiras athletes were victims in Paraguay, the president of Conmebol makes an abominable comparison as he did. It seems even a provocation to Palmeiras and other Brazilian clubs,” Leila said in a statement.
“President Alejandro’s statement demonstrates, once again, Conmebol’s difficulty in understanding what racism is. If the people who command South American football do not even know what racism is, how will they be able to combat it?”
The speech happens a week after the case of racism against Luighi, from Palmeiras, in the departure of Libertadores under-20. Alejandro Domínguez spoke about the subject in Conmebol speech during an event that defined the Libertadores groups and South American Cup. The leader stated that the entity is not indifferent to the subject and takes all the measures that are within reach to inhibit cases of discrimination.
The leader preferred to speak in Portuguese instead of Spanish when talking about the subject as a way of addressing the public in Brazil. Due to agenda reasons, he did not meet members of the Palmeirense Commission to specifically address the matter, as he did not meet separately with any member of another club. Leila Pereira, in protest, did not attend the event. The club was represented by deputy Paulo Buosi.
After the negative repercussion, Alejandro Domínguez publicly spoke out apologizing and reinforcing the entity’s commitment to the fight against discrimination. “Regarding my recent statements, I want to express my excuses. The expression I used is a popular phrase and never intended to disregard or disqualify anyone.
“I always promoted respect and inclusion in football and society, fundamental values for Conmebol.
*Report produced with the aid of AI and Estadão Content
Posted by Fernando Dias
