Botafogo owner John Textor agreed to pay a fine of R$1 million to the Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD). This decision ends the process related to allegations of match-fixing made by Textor. The executive claimed to have evidence that they manipulated Brazilian Championship games, according to the accusations.
In March 2024, Textor presented alleged evidence of manipulation, specifically citing the game between Palmeiras and São Paulo. Despite the seriousness of the allegations, the STJD decided that the evidence was not convincing. Consequently, the court and the businessman reached an agreement to avoid a prolonged trial.
Furthermore, Textor was accused, according to article 243-F of the CBJD, of offending the honor of individuals for reasons related to sport. By committing to pay the fine proposed by his defense, Textor avoids a trial that could result in his suspension for up to two years.
The established amount is historically the highest ever imposed by the STJD in similar cases, surpassing a previous fine applied to Grêmio.
Detailed investigation into John Textor’s accusations
It is important to highlight that the initial investigation arose after the manifestation of the main football entities, including the Attorney General’s Office of Sports Justice and clubs such as Palmeiras and São Paulo. They demanded a detailed investigation into Textor’s statements related to match manipulation.
The STJD gave John Textor ten days to make the payment. This approach ensures that the process does not advance to a stage that could further compromise the businessman’s future in Brazilian football. On the other hand, by accepting the payment, an ongoing controversy is avoided that could attract even more attention to the club and the businessman himself.
Furthermore, the suggestion of paying a fine was promoted by Textor‘s own defense to prevent him from going to trial and receiving up to two years of suspension.
