Brazilian star footballer faces 10-match ban over homophobic post

By Ha Phuong November 16, 2025 | 10:20 pm PT

Brazil and Palmeiras rising star Vitor Roque is facing a potential 10-match suspension from the Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD) after being accused of posting a homophobic photo on social media.

The 20-year-old striker, who has scored 20 goals for Palmeiras this season, was called up to the Brazil national team by coach Carlos Ancelotti this month. However, he is facing a lawsuit, with a potential penalty of 5 to 10 matches for a controversial post on social media.

The incident occurred in early October, following Palmeiras' 3-2 comeback victory over rivals Sao Paulo. Roque, whose nickname is "Tigrinho" (Little Tiger), posted 13 photos to celebrate on Instagram. Notably, the final photo was a picture of a tiger biting the neck of a deer.

A screenshot of the deleted photo on Vitor Roque's Instagram

This photo created immediate backlash. In Brazil, the Portuguese word for deer (ciervo) is a well-known derogatory slang term for homosexuals, which is often aimed at Sao Paulo supporters, according to Global Esporte.

After Palmeiras learned about the photo, the club reportedly contacted Roque and told him that such provocative behaviors no longer have a place in football, as they can lead to violence. Rogue, who realized the problem, quickly deleted the post.

However, the STJD has since prosecuted the rising star striker under the Brazilian Sports Justice Code (CBJD), which regulates discriminatory acts. The maximum penalty is a 10-match ban and a fine of around US$20,000.

With only five rounds left in the 2025 Campeonato Brasileiro Serie A season, Palmeiras are reportedly trying to negotiate a disciplinary agreement. The club, which are at the top of the table, hope to have the suspension replaced with a monetary fine to avoid losing their star player during the crucial stage of the title race.

Vitor Roque celebrates a goal in his signature "tiger" style. Photo by Instagram/@vitor_roque9

Roque, who failed to shine at Barcelona after a 2023 transfer and was loaned to Real Betis, returned to Brazil and joined Palmeiras in early 2025.

Speaking from the Brazil national team camp, Roque remained calm.

"I don’t see any reason for a suspension; an educational conversation is enough," he said, as quoted by Mundo Deportivo. "It wasn’t homophobia, it was just a joke. I’m not afraid of being suspended. Palmeiras’ lawyers are handling it."

Roque's trial was scheduled for Nov. 17 but has been postponed by the STJD to Nov. 19.