The association arm of Botafogo is awaiting a decision from the Superior Court of Justice (STJ) before taking any action regarding the club’s SAF (Sociedade Anônima do Futebol) following the FGV Arbitration Court’s ruling on Monday (May 11). According to Lance! reports, members of the Social believe there is a “conflict of jurisdiction” over the case.
This stance comes after the Arbitration Court returned the political rights to Eagle Bidco, the holding company that owns 90% of the SAF, suspended corporate acts carried out without the company’s participation, and deemed the election and inauguration of Durcesio Mello irregular. Previously, the Rio de Janeiro courts had stripped the company of its powers.
Behind the scenes, the association understands that the matter still requires broader legal determination, especially after the arbitration court itself recognized a “positive conflict of jurisdiction” involving Eagle Bidco’s voting rights and ordered the case to be referred to the STJ.
As a result, Botafogo Social has chosen not to make immediate decisions regarding the SAF’s governance until the higher court decides which instance has definitive authority to oversee the corporate dispute.
**The Arbitration Court’s Decision on Botafogo’s Control**
In its ruling, the arbitration reaffirmed that Eagle Bidco retains full political rights within the SAF and guaranteed the holding a seat at the Extraordinary General Assembly scheduled for May 14. The tribunal also suspended the effects of the shareholders’ agreement signed in July 2025 and annulled corporate acts carried out without the company’s representation.
Another key point was the declaration that Durcesio Mello’s election and inauguration in the SAF structure were irregular. Additionally, the arbitration ordered changes to the board of directors and removed a precautionary protection that had secured John Textor’s statutory position at the club.
The tribunal also scheduled a hearing for May 26, bringing together representatives of the SAF, the association club, Eagle Bidco, and Durcesio Mello to discuss the club’s administrative and legal situation.
