FIFA rules out sanctions against Brazil after CBF chief Rodrigues returns

The Rio de Janeiro Court of Justice removed Ednaldo from his post on Dec. 7 and appointed an interim president to organise new elections after a dispute over the CBF’s electoral process.

File image of Ednaldo Rodrigues. | Photo Credit: AP

World soccer’s governing body has ruled out sanctions against Brazil following the return of the country’s FA (CBF) president Ednaldo Rodrigues, who was removed by a court in Rio last month, FIFA’s director of legal affairs Emilio Garcia said on Monday.

The Rio de Janeiro Court of Justice removed Ednaldo from his post on Dec. 7 and appointed an interim president to organise new elections after a dispute over the CBF’s electoral process.

But Federal Supreme Court minister Gilmar Mendes last week ordered Rodrigues’ return to office claiming that his dismissal by the courts could cause Brazil’s suspension from international soccer competitions by FIFA and damage Brazilian football.

“We are relieved by the Supreme Court’s decision, which restores the presidency of Ednaldo on the basis of a free and democratic decision by Brazilian football,” said Garcia.

“We’re happy that we’re back to the original situation in which Brazilian football elected its president. Brazilian football was at very high risk of being expelled from international competitions.

“That was ruled out for the moment after the Supreme Court decision and is no longer on the table,” he added.

CBF president Rodrigues thanked FIFA and South American soccer’s governing body CONMEBOL for their support.

“This is the moment that restores normality to Brazilian football and we have many commitments for our calendar. From now on we want to concentrate on the development of Brazilian football,” he said.

“I was elected in a clear and transparent way. Brazilian football wins when its autonomy is restored. We can now be sure that Brazil’s clubs and national teams will take part in international competitions.”

Brazil is sixth in the South American qualifying standings for the 2026 World Cup, after suffering three straight defeats to Uruguay, Colombia and Argentina.

Rodrigues announced the resignation of Fernando Diniz as Brazil’s manager on Friday, the day after resuming his post. Former Sao Paolo coach Dorival Junior is expected to be presented as Brazil’s new manager by Wednesday.