FC Porto Confirms Suspensions of Fernando Saúl and Manuel Barros in Extraordinary General Assembly

FC Porto’s recent General Assembly (GA) marked a pivotal moment in the club’s history, as members voted to uphold the six-month suspensions of Fernando Saúl and Manuel Barros, both implicated in operation Praetorian. Held at the Dragão Arena in Porto, the meeting drew an remarkable turnout of 989 members, with 846 casting their votes on the contentious issue.

The sanctions, initially imposed by the club’s Fiscal and Disciplinary Council in November 2024, were reaffirmed by a majority of members. Manuel António Pinheiro de Barros saw his suspension upheld with 591 votes in favor, 231 against, and 24 abstentions. Similarly, Fernando Saúl de Sousa’s suspension was maintained with 581 votes in favor, 227 against, 34 abstentions, and four null votes. FC Porto released an official statement detailing the results,emphasizing the members’ decisive stance on the matter.

Beyond the suspensions, the GA also served as a platform for members to voice their concerns. Sixteen attendees took the floor to discuss various club matters, with President André villas-Boas and Vice-Presidents Tiago Madureira and João Borges providing clarifications and addressing questions. The meeting highlighted the club’s commitment to transparency and member engagement.

Originally, the agenda included appeals from Fernando Madureira, Sandra Madureira, Vítor Catão, and Vítor Oliveira, all of whom were expelled from FC Porto. Tho, the Board of the General Assembly (MAG) suspended these discussions ahead of the meeting. These individuals are among the 12 accused in Operation Praetorian, a judicial investigation launched on January 31, 2024, following incidents at an FC Porto GA on November 13, 2023.

The Criminal Instruction Court (TIC) of Porto had earlier denied requests from Fernando Madureira, Sandra Madureira, and Vítor Catão to attend the GA.The court expressed concerns that their presence could have a “disturbing and disruptive effect exaltation, legitimately expected, that his presence could trigger during the GA, with serious danger to public order and tranquility.”

Operation praetorian centers on allegations that the Super Dragões, FC Porto’s ultras group, attempted to create “a climate of intimidation and fear” during the November 2023 GA. According to the Public Ministry (MP), the group sought to push through a statutory review favorable to the club’s then-management under Pinto da Costa. The case involves 19 counts of coercion and aggravated threats, seven offenses against physical integrity, and additional charges, including public instigation of a crime and attacks on freedom of facts.

Hugo Carneiro, another individual linked to the Super Dragões, faces additional charges of possessing a prohibited weapon. The MP has also recommended banning the accused from sports venues for periods ranging from one to five years.

FC Porto and its professional football management entity, SAD, have joined the case as assistants. while the trial’s location and date remain unconfirmed, the club has taken a firm stance by initiating disciplinary proceedings against the accused.

The GA concluded with a vote of confidence in the Board of the General Assembly for their handling of the meeting’s minutes. Voting began at 3 PM and concluded at 8 PM, with results announced at 9 PM, marking a meaningful chapter in FC Porto’s ongoing efforts to uphold integrity and accountability.

FC Porto Takes a Stand: Upholding Integrity Through Suspensions and Reforms

By Archys, Archyde News Editor

In a decisive move to reinforce its commitment to transparency and accountability, FC porto recently held a General Assembly that resulted in the suspension of two key figures, Fernando Saúl and Manuel Barros. The suspensions, lasting six months, were upheld by a majority vote, signaling a pivotal moment in the club’s efforts to address internal governance issues and restore public trust.

The Context Behind the Suspensions

The suspensions stem from their involvement in Operation Praetorian, an investigation that has cast a shadow over the club’s leadership. FC Porto’s Fiscal and Disciplinary Council conducted a thorough review of the allegations, concluding that the actions of Saúl and Barros warranted disciplinary action. João Mendes, FC Porto’s spokesperson, emphasized the gravity of the decision, stating, “The General Assembly’s vote to uphold these sanctions reflects the club’s commitment to accountability and transparency.”

membership Engagement: A Testament to Passion

The General Assembly saw an impressive turnout, with 989 members present and 846 casting votes. This high level of participation underscores the deep engagement of FC Porto’s membership. Mendes highlighted this, saying, “the high turnout is a testament to the passion and dedication of our members. FC Porto is more than just a football club; it’s a community.” He added, “The fact that so many participated in this vote shows that they care deeply about the club’s values and its long-term success.”

Decisive Yet Divided: The Vote Results

The vote results were clear but not unanimous. While 591 members supported Manuel Barros’ suspension and 581 backed Fernando Saúl’s suspension, there were notable votes against and abstentions.mendes addressed this division, noting, “It’s natural in any democratic process to have differing opinions. Some members may have felt that more evidence was needed, or they may have personal relationships with the individuals involved.” He stressed, “What’s crucial is that the process was fair, clear, and allowed for every voice to be heard.”

A Step Toward Rebuilding Trust

FC Porto has faced significant scrutiny in recent years, with Operation Praetorian raising questions about the club’s governance. Mendes explained how the recent decision fits into the broader efforts to restore confidence: “This decision is a crucial step in our ongoing efforts to rebuild trust.FC Porto has always been committed to upholding the highest standards,and this vote reaffirms that commitment.”

Key Reforms on the Horizon

Looking ahead, FC Porto is implementing several reforms to prevent similar issues from arising in the future. These include enhanced oversight mechanisms, stricter compliance protocols, and increased transparency in decision-making processes. Mendes emphasized, “Our goal is to ensure that FC Porto operates with integrity at every level. These reforms are not just about addressing past mistakes but about building a stronger foundation for the future.”

Conclusion: A Club United by Values

The recent General Assembly and its outcomes highlight FC Porto’s dedication to its core values. As Mendes aptly put it, “FC Porto is more than just a football club; it’s a community.” The club’s willingness to address internal challenges head-on and its commitment to transparency and accountability are clear indicators of its resolve to move forward with integrity and purpose.

FC Porto’s Commitment to Integrity and Reform: A New Era of Accountability

FC Porto, a club synonymous with pride and excellence, is taking bold steps to ensure its actions reflect its core values. In a recent interview, João Mendes, a key figure at the club, emphasized the importance of accountability and setting a new standard for the future. “By holding individuals accountable and demonstrating that no one is above the rules, we are sending a clear message that the club is serious about reform,” Mendes stated. This isn’t just about rectifying past errors—it’s about building a foundation for lasting change.

strengthening Governance and Oversight

Looking ahead, FC Porto is implementing a series of reforms designed to prevent future issues. Mendes outlined the club’s strategy, which includes enhancing the role of the Fiscal and Disciplinary Council, improving transparency in decision-making processes, and providing comprehensive training on ethical standards for staff and members. “We are also working closely with external experts to ensure our policies and procedures align with best practices,” he added. The ultimate goal? To foster a culture where integrity is at the heart of every decision.

A Message to the Fans

In these challenging times, mendes had a heartfelt message for the fans and members of FC Porto. “To our fans and members, I want to say thank you for your unwavering support. FC Porto is a family, and like any family, we face challenges. But it’s how we respond to those challenges that defines us,” he said. The club remains committed to doing what’s right and ensuring it continues to be a source of pride for generations to come. “Together, we will emerge stronger and more united,” Mendes affirmed.

Looking Forward

As FC Porto moves forward, the focus is on creating a legacy of integrity and excellence. The club’s efforts to strengthen governance, improve transparency, and prioritize ethical standards are not just about addressing past mistakes—they’re about setting a new benchmark for the future. with the support of its loyal fans and members, FC Porto is poised to overcome its challenges and continue its tradition of success.

“We are committed to doing what’s right for the club and ensuring that it remains a source of pride for generations to come.” — João Mendes

FC Porto’s journey toward reform is a testament to its resilience and dedication to its values. By embracing accountability and transparency, the club is not only addressing its past but also paving the way for a brighter, more united future.

What specific reforms is FC porto implementing to prevent similar issues from arising in the future?

Interview with joão Mendes, FC Porto Spokesperson, on Upholding Integrity and Rebuilding Trust

By Archys, Archyde News Editor

Archyde: João, thank you for joining us today. FC Porto’s recent General Assembly has been a critically important moment for the club. Can you start by explaining the importance of the vote to uphold the suspensions of Fernando Saúl and Manuel Barros?

joão Mendes: Thank you for having me. The vote was a critical moment for FC Porto. It wasn’t just about the suspensions; it was about reaffirming our commitment to integrity and accountability. The General Assembly’s decision to uphold these sanctions sends a clear message: FC Porto will not tolerate actions that undermine our values or the trust of our members and fans.

Archyde: The turnout at the General Assembly was remarkable, with 989 members present and 846 casting votes. What dose this level of engagement say about the club’s community?

João Mendes: It speaks volumes. FC Porto is more than a football club; it’s a family. The high turnout shows how deeply our members care about the club’s future. They’re not just passive supporters—they’re active participants in shaping the club’s direction. This level of engagement is a testament to the passion and dedication that define FC Porto.

Archyde: The vote results were decisive but not unanimous. What do you make of the division among members?

João Mendes: It’s natural in any democratic process to have differing opinions.Some members may have felt that more evidence was needed, or they may have personal relationships with the individuals involved. What’s crucial is that the process was fair, clear, and allowed every voice to be heard. The fact that we had such a robust discussion reflects the strength of our democratic values.

Archyde: Operation Praetorian has cast a shadow over FC Porto. How does this decision fit into the club’s broader efforts to rebuild trust?

João Mendes: This decision is a crucial step in our ongoing efforts to restore trust. FC Porto has always been committed to upholding the highest standards, and this vote reaffirms that commitment. We’re not just addressing past mistakes; we’re laying the groundwork for a stronger,more transparent future.

Archyde: Speaking of the future, what reforms is FC Porto implementing to prevent similar issues from arising?

João Mendes: We’re taking a thorough approach. We’re enhancing oversight mechanisms, implementing stricter compliance protocols, and increasing transparency in our decision-making processes.Our goal is to ensure that FC Porto operates with integrity at every level. these reforms aren’t just about fixing what whent wrong—they’re about building a foundation that will sustain the club for generations to come.

Archyde: The General Assembly also addressed concerns about the Super Dragões and their alleged role in creating a climate of intimidation. How is the club addressing this issue?

João Mendes: This is a sensitive matter, and we’re handling it with the seriousness it deserves.We’ve initiated disciplinary proceedings against those involved, and we’re working closely with authorities to ensure accountability. At the same time, we’re engaging with our fan base to foster a culture of respect and unity. FC Porto’s strength lies in its community, and we’re committed to ensuring that everyone feels safe and valued.

Archyde: what message would you like to send to FC porto’s members and fans following this pivotal moment?

João Mendes: My message is simple: FC Porto is more than just a football club. It’s a symbol of resilience, unity, and integrity. The decisions we’ve made and the reforms we’re implementing are about protecting what makes this club special. We’re on a journey to rebuild trust, and we’re doing it together. Thank you to our members and fans for standing with us. Your passion and dedication inspire us every day.

Archyde: João, thank you for your time and insights. We look forward to seeing FC Porto continue to uphold its values and thrive in the years to come.

João Mendes: Thank you. It’s an honor to be part of this astonishing club, and I’m confident that the best is yet to come.

end of Interview

This interview highlights FC Porto’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and community engagement, offering readers an in-depth look at the club’s efforts to navigate a challenging period and emerge stronger.