Hélio dos Anjos ordered to pay damages for insults to Ari Barros

Football coach Hélio dos Anjos has been ordered by the Paraíba Court of Justice to pay damages and issue a formal retraction to football executive Ari Barros. The unanimous decision follows defamatory and insulting statements made by dos Anjos during a 2024 press conference shortly after his departure from Paysandu.

During the interview, dos Anjos criticized Barros's professional conduct, labeling his work as ‘antiethical’ and calling him ‘stupid’. The coach also alleged that Barros was involved in unprofessional discussions regarding coaching situations near his residence.

The court ruled that the remarks were defamatory. Including interest and monetary correction, the compensation amount is approximately R$ 30,000. In addition to the payment, dos Anjos must publish an apology and a retraction. The decision is subject to appeal.