Former Botafogo vice-president Vinícius Assumpção has launched a petition calling for Marcelo de Lima Henrique to leave his new role advising the club on refereeing. Created on November 5, the petition challenges the appointment over decisions in matches involving the club. The appointment brought back a familiar subject for supporters: memories of 2008. Marcelo refereed that year’s Taça Guanabara final, which Flamengo won 2–1 amid protests from Botafogo over the officiating.

What the petition asks for

Assumpção asks the board to dismiss the adviser and criticises his record in Botafogo matches. The allegations reflect the petition author’s position. Arena Alvinegra first reported the appointment, which ge subsequently confirmed. According to the reporting, the role includes facilitating contact with the CBF and advising players and coaching staff on refereeing. The debate over his selection now has a form and a place to sign; the club had not officially announced the appointment in the sources consulted. The editorial team did not find a Botafogo response to the petition.