Brazilian football clubs Vasco and Flamengo locked in legal battles over SAF sale and player contract

Vasco da Gama is negotiating the sale of its football‑society (SAF) to businessman Marcos Lamacchia. Former legal chief Felipe Carregal said he supported the sale but warned that the investor’s refusal to give Vasco a seat on the SAF’s board and the lack of monetary correction in the payment schedule could harm the club. Lamacchia has pledged up to R$ 500 million, promising to settle debts and fund the team, and the club plans to file an appeal on June 29 while aiming to announce the transaction on July 10.

Flamengo has filed a court claim against midfielder Gerson, his father‑in‑law’s firm FGM Sports Ltd., and the player’s representatives, seeking R$ 42.7 million in damages. The club argues Gerson signed a contract with Russian side Zenit before formally terminating his image‑rights agreement with Flamengo, violating FIFA and CBF regulations. Flamengo submitted the Zenit contract, WhatsApp chats, and other evidence to the Rio de Janeiro court, describing Gerson as a “contract‑breaker.” The lawsuit remains pending.