The Brazilian University Sports Confederation (CBDU) has taken swift action following a disturbing incident during the Brazilian University Beach Games (JUBs Praia) in Guarapari, Espírito Santo. The governing body announced the immediate removal of a commentator from its broadcast team after homophobic and misogynistic remarks were directed at athlete Carina Rocha from the Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (Udesc).
The offensive comments occurred during the official transmission of a beach soccer match on Tuesday. Audio from the broadcast captured remarks such as "Wait, can men play too?" and "Look at number 10," accompanied by laughter, which were aimed at the female athlete. The incident sparked widespread condemnation from the university community and sports authorities.
Carina Rocha herself brought the issue to public attention by sharing the video on her social media platforms. She condemned the commentary team's behavior, stating that the remarks crossed all acceptable boundaries. "What happened on the second day crossed ANY limits. Comments with sexist and homophobic content are not 'jokes,' not 'opinions,' and much less part of good commentary. This is disrespect. It is unacceptable. It is a crime," she wrote in a public statement.
In its official response, the CBDU emphasized its zero-tolerance policy toward discriminatory behavior. The confederation stated that upon learning of the case, it immediately determined the exclusion of the individual under investigation. The organization also confirmed that the broadcast company responsible for the coverage has initiated its own internal investigation and will take appropriate measures.
The case is currently being examined by the CBDU's Disciplinary Commission and the University Sports Superior Court of Justice (STJDU). The confederation has pledged full cooperation with these bodies to ensure a thorough and transparent investigation. The CBDU reiterated that it does not tolerate discriminatory manifestations that are incompatible with the values of sport.
Udesc Esportes issued a strong statement of repudiation, calling the incident an act of gender discrimination. The university reaffirmed its commitment to being a plural and inclusive public institution, stating there is no space for conduct that violates human dignity in university sports or any institutional environment. The university demanded rigorous investigation and accountability for those involved.
The university's athletic association, CEFID, also released a statement condemning the remarks. The association emphasized that narrating a competition requires responsibility, ethics, and respect, especially in a university sports context where athletes balance training, studies, work, and other demands. "Respect is not optional. It is essential," the statement concluded, expressing solidarity with Carina and all athletes affected by the situation.
Based on reporting from g1.