The Brazilian Ministries of Women and Sports have issued a strong joint statement condemning a tribute given by players of the Vasco-AC football team to three of their teammates who are currently in prison, facing accusations of rape against two women in the team's accommodation. This incident occurred during the first round of the Copa do Brasil against Velo Clube, where the players displayed shirts with the names of the accused individuals.

Notably, among those who participated in the tribute was goalkeeper Bruno, previously convicted of the murder of model Eliza Samudio. In their statement, the ministries expressed solidarity with the victims and emphasized their trust in the justice system to handle the case appropriately, asserting that such acts should not undermine the seriousness of sexual violence against women.

The Brazilian government reaffirmed that sports, which should serve as a platform for the development and inspiration of youth, must not be misused to normalize or lessen the severity of violence against women. This incident has raised significant concerns about the culture within sports communities and the potential impact on societal attitudes towards gender-based violence.