Latest Update on Flamengo's Protest Over Marcos Rojo's Alleged Ineligible Appearance
CONMEBOL has rejected Flamengo's protest over Marcos Rojo's appearance in the Copa Libertadores semifinal. Estudiantes de La Plata retains its place in the final against Palmeiras, although the Brazilian club can still appeal.
The controversy surrounding Marcos Rojo's participation in the 2026 Copa Libertadores semifinal has resulted in a favorable ruling for Estudiantes de La Plata.
CONMEBOL's Disciplinary Committee dismissed the protest filed by Flamengo, which challenged the Argentine defender's eligibility for the second-leg match played on October 22.
The Brazilian club had requested Estudiantes' disqualification after being eliminated at the Maracanã following a penalty shootout.
However, South American soccer's governing body determined that no punishment against the Argentine side was warranted and also rejected the requested precautionary measures.
With this decision, Estudiantes retains its place in the tournament final, scheduled for November 28 against Palmeiras in Montevideo.
Why Did Flamengo File a Protest Over Marcos Rojo's Eligibility?
The dispute began when Estudiantes attempted to sign Marcos Rojo to address defensive absences ahead of the semifinals.
The defender arrived from Racing Club, but his registration became complicated because the transfer window had already closed.
Although the Argentine club sought special authorization, CONMEBOL initially rejected the request.
As a result, Estudiantes appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), which granted a provisional measure allowing the defender to participate in the second leg.
Following its elimination, Flamengo challenged that authorization and filed a formal protest.
The Arguments That Supported Estudiantes' Case Before CAS
Estudiantes de La Plata based its defense partly on the injury suffered by Gabriel Neves, who sustained a fracture requiring an estimated recovery period of three to six months.
The club also cited the signing of Rolando Schiavi during the 2009 Copa Libertadores, when it received authorization to strengthen its defense.
Another precedent presented was Leonardo Jara's registration with Lanús during the 2024 Copa Sudamericana.
According to the information released, Estudiantes submitted numerous examples of exceptional player registrations to support its position.
Can Flamengo Still Appeal CONMEBOL's Decision?
Although the ruling represents an administrative victory for Estudiantes, the dispute may not be over.
Flamengo still has the option to appeal to CONMEBOL's Appeals Committee in an attempt to overturn the decision.
For now, the Copa Libertadores final between Estudiantes de La Plata and Palmeiras remains scheduled to go ahead.
Key Takeaways
- CONMEBOL rejected Flamengo's protest over Marcos Rojo's eligibility.
- Estudiantes retains its place in the Copa Libertadores final.
- CAS had provisionally authorized the defender's participation.
- Gabriel Neves' injury was one of the Argentine club's main arguments.
- Flamengo can still file an appeal.
- Estudiantes will face Palmeiras on November 28 in Montevideo.
