Vasco da Gama SAF sale sparks legal controversy and Flamengo criticism

Flamengo president Luiz Eduardo Baptista, known as Bap, declared the proposed sale of Vasco da Gama’s Sociedade Anônima do Futebol (SAF) illegal, citing FIFA and CBF regulations. The deal, led by investor Marcos Lamacchia, aims to acquire 90% of the SAF for roughly R$ 2 billion, raising conflict‑of‑interest concerns because Lamacchia is linked to Palmeiras president Leila Pereira.

The transaction is stalled after a court injunction removed Vasco’s board members, including president Pedrinho. Lamacchia sent a formal letter to the judicial interventors demanding the reinstatement of the ousted directors and the resolution of any irregularities before any further funding. His demands increase pressure on the judge overseeing the case. Vasco, currently near the bottom of Brazil’s Serie A table, faces relegation risk as the sale negotiations remain unresolved.