Red Bull Bragantino Defender Gustavo Marques has been hit with a 12-match suspension in São Paulo state competitions after making sexist comments about a female referee.
The 24-year-old was also fined 30,000 Brazilian reais (5,700) following his post-match interview with referee Daiane Muniz after Bragantino’s 2-1 loss to São Paulo on February 21.
The suspension applies only to state-run games, leaving him eligible for national league and Cup fixtures.
Marques, on loan from Benfica, drew immediate criticism for questioning Muniz’s appointment, saying:
“ I think the FPF has to look at a game of this size and not appoint a female referee. With all respect to women, I’m married, I also have my mum, I’m sorry if I’m saying anything bad about women, but I don’t think that she has the capacity to referee this game.”
RB Bragantino acted swiftly, removing him from the next match and fining him half of his wages. The club made clear that “nothing justifies” the remarks.
In the hours following the ruling, Marques publicly apologised. Speaking at the Cicero De Souza Marques stadium, he said:
“I’m here once again to apologise to women around the world and here in Brazil. I said:
“I’m here once again to apologise to women around the world and here in Brazil. I said things I shouldn’t have about Daiane. I went to her and her assistant to apologise, and I’m here again to ask forgiveness. I’m upset and sad, my wife and my mother have already scolded me. I’m a man, a human being, and humans make mistakes.”
Bragantino is part of the Red Bull football network, which includes RB Leipzig in Germany, Red Bull Salzburg in Austria, and MLS side New York Bulls.
The incident has caused a widespread discussion across Brazilian football about respect, professionalism, and the role of women officials in the men’s game.
