Vitória president Fábio Motta expresses support for new guidelines in Brazilian football, but contests the immediate implementation of the measures, suggesting a longer adaptation period.
The CBF‘s recent decision to implement new rules in the Brazilian Serie A has sparked intense debate behind the scenes. Among the changes are strategies to reduce time-wasting during matches and the strict “Vini Jr. Law,” which aims to punish obscene gestures or acts of discrimination on the pitch. The scenario reflects the governing body’s push for greater professionalism and disciplinary control.
Although the movement has been approved by the majority of clubs, Vitória, led by Fábio Motta, has taken a stance against the immediate enforcement of the standards. Alongside Grêmio, the club from Bahia advocated for a longer timeline, calling for full application only starting in 2027 to ensure a transition period that guarantees a full understanding for all parties involved.
A call for caution
For the M360 Team, Fábio Motta‘s position reveals concerns regarding the logistics and organizational culture of the clubs. The executive argues that domestic football still faces difficulties in applying the guidelines currently in force, making the imposition of ten new measures a complex administrative and technical challenge.
I think it is premature; I don’t think it should be now. You should go through an adaptation period to first understand the new rules, especially since we are already having trouble with the current ones.
Disagreement over the Vini Jr. Law
One of the biggest points of friction was the implementation of the “Vini Jr. Law.” The rule stipulates that covering the mouth during arguments or provocations will automatically result in a red card, regardless of the content of the conversation. The Vitória executive questions the subjective interpretation of the rule, suggesting that the gesture can have different meanings.
I don’t see it that way. Sometimes putting your hand over your mouth has a different meaning; there’s another conversation happening between teammates that has nothing to do with harming the game of football.
Despite the isolated resistance from some clubs, the CBF‘s decision remains in place. The impact of these changes will be tested in the coming rounds, where referees will be under the spotlight. The transition, even if considered hasty by some executives, promises to transform the disciplinary dynamics of Brazilian football moving forward.
