Brazilian Court Delivers Historic Punishment After Internacional Defender Breaks Cruzeiro Star’s Leg
Brazil’s Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD) has issued a groundbreaking suspension to Internacional defender Victor Gabriel, ruling that he cannot return to competitive football until Cruzeiro forward Gabriel Pec recovers from a serious leg injury.
The unusual decision follows a heavy challenge during Internacional’s Serie A clash with Cruzeiro on July 23, which left Pec with a fractured left tibia during his debut for the club.
Under the ruling, Gabriel will remain suspended until Pec is medically cleared to resume training. However, the punishment has been limited to a maximum of 180 days to comply with regulations.
Gabriel appeared before the tribunal and insisted that the challenge was accidental, saying he never intended to injure his opponent. The 22-year-old defender expressed his regret and apologised to Pec and Cruzeiro.
“I’ve had sleepless nights praying for him, and I offer a heartfelt apology to everyone at Cruzeiro,” Gabriel said, explaining that the wet pitch caused him to lose control after winning the ball.
The defender was charged under Article 254 of the Brazilian Code of Sports Justice, which deals with violent play. Prosecutors argued that the severity of Pec’s injury justified an extended suspension linked to the player’s recovery period.
The incident has dealt a major blow to Cruzeiro, who had recently made a record investment to sign Pec from LA Galaxy for at least $12 million during the 2026 World Cup break.
The Brazilian club will now have to manage without one of their biggest summer signings as Pec begins his recovery from the serious injury.
