Rio Court Dismisses Brazilian Football Chief Over Forgery Claims

A court in Rio de Janeiro ordered the dismissal of Ednaldo Rodrigues as head of the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) over allegations that a signature on his 2025 employment contract was forged due to the signatory being mentally unfit. This ruling declared Rodrigues's contract null and void and mandated new leadership elections, adding turmoil to Brazilian football just days after Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti was announced as the new national team coach. Rodrigues, the first Black president of the CBF, had previously faced suspension over election irregularities in 2023 but was reinstated by the Supreme Court following FIFA's warnings of sanctions. FIFA and CONMEBOL have both expressed disapproval of Rodrigues's removal and cautioned against external interference, threatening that the CBF could be barred from international competitions. Despite the controversy, Rodrigues maintained confidence in the validity of his contract during a FIFA meeting. The CBF interim president confirmed adherence to the court's ruling while the federation has appealed the decision to the Supreme Court.