President of Flamengo last week criticized the use of synthetic pitches by elite Brazilian football clubs, such as Palmeiras
Most successful clubs in recent years in Brazilian football, Palmeiras and Flamengo are also fighting behind the scenes with exchanges of barbs. The president of Palmeiras, Leila Pereira, mocked Luiz Eduardo Baptista, known as Bap, president of the Rio club, for his shows at Maracanã, stadium that is managed by the rival and Fluminense.
“I saw in the press that they signed a deal with a company so that there would be shows at Maracanã. Wow, is Flamengo wanting to give up football and become a concert hall?”, he stated. Leila in an excerpt from an unreleased podcast on TV Palmeiras to which ESPN had access. “I advise him (Bap) to install synthetic lawn. I even recommend our lawn, which is spectacular. He will like it. I’m sure of it”, he added.
Leila Pereira’s statement was a response to Bap, who, last week, criticized the use of synthetic pitches by elite Brazilian football clubs, such as Palmeiras. He provoked his rival and cited the fact that Allianz Parque also hosts shows, in addition to team matches. The director stated that this type of flooring should only be used when it is not possible to use natural flooring.
“Guys, the plastic field is a way for you to keep football alive in countries that spend 8 or 9 months a year under ice. It’s not just about having a lower maintenance cost, it’s about making money with a show. Anyone who wants to make money with a show has to change the segment, they’re going to put on a show. Whoever wants to make money with football wants strong football in Brazil, should defend the natural grass field“, stated Bap.
The Flamengo president also stated that being against the use of synthetic grass should not be controversial, as this type of surface would devalue the competitions. “Either you have a first world league with grass pitches, or you won’t have a first world league, because we keep trying to create subterfuges and tricks here and there.”
He added that Flamengo’s position is very clear and that the club has no power to decide on the matter. “If I could, I would have done it already. The CBF can and should take care of this.”
