internacional Coach Apologizes After Homophobic Remark
Porto Alegre, Brazil – December 2, 2025 – Newly appointed Internacional coach abel Braga swiftly apologized after making a controversial statement about the color pink during his introductory press conference, sparking widespread criticism and a response from rival club Grêmio.
Braga’s initial remark,the specific content of which was not detailed in his immediate apology,drew immediate backlash. he addressed the controversy via his Instagram profile, stating, “Colorados and Colorados, first of all, I recognize that I did not make a good statement about the color pink during my press conference. Before this proliferates, I apologize. Colors do not define genders, what defines them is character. Internacional needs peace and a lot of work.” The incident underscores growing sensitivity surrounding inclusivity in Brazilian football and the responsibility of high-profile figures to avoid discriminatory language.
Grêmio, Internacional’s archrival, responded with a strong statement of its own on social media. “We are proud of all our fans, whether they are blue, white, black, pink or any other color. Grêmio is a place of passion, where everyone can be whoever they want to be, a place where the most crucial thing is the voice of encouragement. Grêmio is the Clube De Todos and we are against any type of discrimination,” the club posted.
The controversy unfolded as Braga began preparations for his first match, an away game against São Paulo on December 3rd at 8pm Brasília time, to be played at Vila Belmiro in Santos (SP). Internacional currently sits in 17th place in the Brazilian Championship with 41 points, within the relegation zone.Despite the team’s precarious position, Braga expressed confidence in their ability to avoid relegation, telling players, “A team that plays the first half you did against Santos cannot be in this situation, so you need to improve your spirit and regain your confidence in a few hours to bring back what we really are.”
