A top Brazilian football club has turned a rival coach’s homophobic gaffe into an opportunity to promote inclusivity and boost merchandise sales.
Veteran manager Abel Braga, 73, of Internacional Porto Alegre, sparked controversy with a comment regarding the pink training jersey of rival club Grêmio. Braga reportedly stated he did not want his team "training in a pink shirt, looks like a f****t’s team."
This remark, initially made privately to Internacional’s sporting director D’Alessandro, was later shared publicly during a press conference. The statement drew widespread criticism from various sectors.
Grêmio responded by launching a subtle but pointed promotional campaign for its pink jersey. The club announced discounts for members and fans.
The campaign’s slogan, shared on social media, read: "PLACE OF PASSION. For all Tricolores to wear the color they want, with pride!" This message clearly countered the rival coach’s remarks.
LUGAR DE PAIXÃO ❤️🔥 Para todos os Tricolores vestirem a cor que quiserem, com orgulho! A GrêmioMania está com promoção especial! A Camisa Rosa 2025 tá com descontão:
👉 25% OFF para todos os gremistas
👉 10% OFF adicional para os sóciosGaranta a tua na loja física da… pic.twitter.com/IBc1NtDnVu
— Grêmio FBPA (@Gremio) December 1, 2025
The promotion offered a 25% discount to all Grêmio fans, with an additional 10% off for club members. The move allowed Grêmio to champion diversity while capitalizing on the rival’s misstep. Braga had been hired by Internacional to help the team avoid relegation.