Coach mocks Rio de Janeiro club for Libra hurdles, highlights ‘clubism’ on pitch agenda
December 8
2025
– 10:12 p.m.
(updated at 10:12 p.m.)
The president of Palmeiras, Leila Pereiramocked Flamengo’s proposal presented to the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) to improve the country’s lawns. The red-black club document cites, among other measures, the end of synthetic grass.
The agenda directly concerns Palmeiras, who are one of five clubs in Serie A 2026 that have artificial turf in their stadium. The other four are Atlético-MG, Athletico-PR, Botafogo and Chapecoense.
What Flamengo’s proposal says about pitches sent to the CBF
Flamengo proposes the creation of a pitch standardization program, according to FIFA and UEFA standards. The plan would include mandatory technical testing, infrastructure assessment and periodic inspections.
The club advocates the end of synthetic fields. To support this position, it is argued that the incidence of injuries is higher on artificial turf.
“Although the scientific literature is still seeking absolute consensus, the experience of the world’s football elite and most biomechanical studies point to increased and specific risks in artificial turf, not compatible with high performance,” argues the red-black club, citing research from five scientific journals (Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports, American Journal of Sports Medicine, Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, Journal of Environmental Management, British Journal of Sports Medicine), a report from the Connecticut Department of Public Health and a report from the Connecticut Department of Public Health. The Guardian.
Flamengo still cites issues in game performance, such as variations in ball speed and changes in tactical behavior. The idea would be to phase out Series A synthetics in 2028 and Series B in 2029.
Brasileirão 2026 locations
- Natural – Bahia, Corinthians, Coritiba, Cruzeiro, Flamengo/Fluminense, Grêmio, Internacional, Mirassol, Red Bull Bragantino, Remo Santos, São Paulo, Vasco and Vitória
- Synthetic – Atlético-MG, Athletico-PR, Botafogo, Chapecoense and Palmeiras
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