Share

Fred jumps to Suarez' defence

Terespolis - Brazil striker Fred has said on Thursday the lengthy ban for biting handed down to Uruguay's Luis Suarez could "ruin his livelihood."

"You can't deny that he committed a mistake, but as a player and a human being who sometimes takes things to heart, I think (the ban) is too severe," said Fred at a press conference in Teresopolis in a rare show of unity between the old South American rivals.

"The majority of people I have spoken to about it think it is fair but it is a punishment that could ruin his livelihood.

"I think he has to be punished, but I would really like to see him continue playing in this World Cup in Brazil."

FIFA announced on Thursday morning that Suarez would be banned from all football-related activity for four months while also having to sit out his country's next nine matches and pay a fine of €82 000.

The 27-year-old striker was found guilty of biting Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini as the two challenged for the ball during Uruguay's 1-0 win on Tuesday.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1182 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
30% - 1369 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2086 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE