The Brazilian Supreme Court of Sports Justice announced the suspension of Victor Gabriel, the Brazilian Internacional defender, for a maximum of 180 days after his violent tackle on Cruzeiro player Gabriel Pec.
Pec, the second most expensive signing in Cruzeiro's history, suffered a violent injury with a previous fracture after a strong tackle from Victor, who was sent off on July 22.
The Supreme Court decided to apply the strict penalty to the player in accordance with the law, according to the Brazilian "Globo" network.
The player was expected to be suspended under Article 254 of the Brazilian Sports Justice Law for between one and six matches.
However, reference was made to Clause 3 of the same article, which states:"If the injured party remains unable to practice sports as a result of a serious violent intervention, the perpetrator may remain suspended until the injured party is able to return to training, taking into account a maximum period of 180 days".
🟥 Victor Gabriel recebe cartão vermelho direto por entrada muito forte em Gabriel Pec.#futebol #internacional #cruzeiro #brasileirão #ge pic.twitter.com/wGkk5nS58J@geglobo
Pec underwent successful surgery and will be sidelined for at least 3-4 months after playing only one match with Cruzeiro.
Victor expressed regret over his violent tackle, saying: "Since that night, I have been going through difficult days. I left home wishing for moments of happiness. I spent sleepless nights praying for him. I apologize from the bottom of my heart to everyone who belongs to Cruzeiro club".
Pec joined Cruzeiro for 12 million euros as the club's second most expensive signing during the current summer transfer window.
Cruzeiro sits in 11th place after 20 rounds of the Brazilian league, while Internacional is in 16th.
