Harry Massis makes first address as interim president of São Paulo FC after Casares impeachment
Harry Massis makes first address as interim president of São Paulo FC after Casares impeachment
Harry Massis delivered his inaugural address as the interim president of São Paulo FC on Friday, January 16, 2025, following the approval of the impeachment proceedings against former president Julio Casares. The decision to remove Casares was finalized during a special session of the club’s Deliberative Council.
Speaking from the Morumbis stadium, Massis emphasized the gravity of the situation, acknowledging the challenging period the club faces. He highlighted his commitment to upholding the institution’s legacy and prioritizing its most valuable asset: the passionate fanbase.
The pronouncement comes at a critical juncture for the Tricolor, as it navigates both institutional upheaval and ongoing external investigations into alleged irregularities. Massis’s words aimed to instill a sense of calm and a clear direction for the immediate future.
New leadership takes the helm
Massis expressed profound respect for the club’s rich history and its dedicated supporters. He stated, “Today is not a simple day for our club; it is a day of responsibility. I assume the presidency with great respect for the history of this institution and, above all, for the fans, who are the greatest asset we possess.”
He acknowledged the club’s current difficulties, including ongoing investigations that demand serious and respectful handling. Massis underscored the importance of adhering to institutional processes and respecting the right to defense for all individuals involved.
Addressing ongoing investigations and club integrity
“Everyone knows we are living through a difficult moment; there are ongoing investigations, and they must be treated with seriousness, calm, and respect for institutions and the right to defense of every person involved,” Massis added, addressing the elephant in the room.
Harry Massis Jr. affirmed the club’s unwavering commitment to its core mission. He declared, “What I can say with all clarity is that the club will continue to compete, will continue to honor its jersey and its history.”
The new presidency, he elaborated, operates under a “simple and firm” commitment: to care for the club, protect the institution, and act with unwavering responsibility and transparency. He stressed that this is a time for diligence, not rash judgments or empty rhetoric.
A veteran’s extensive history with the club
An integral member of the Vanguarda political group, Harry Massis was initially elected as vice-president alongside Julio Casares for the 2021-2023 triennium. His commitment to the club continued with his re-election for the subsequent term, which is set to run until 2026. Massis boasts a profound and lengthy association with São Paulo FC, having been a vitalício councilor since 1964, making him one of the Tricolor’s most enduring members.
Throughout his long tenure, Massis has consistently held various leadership positions within the club, contributing significantly to its operational and strategic directions. His experience includes a role as adjunct football director between 2001 and 2002, a period that saw the club clinch the Torneio Rio-São Paulo title. Furthermore, his involvement extended to crucial international successes, serving as administrative adjunct director and a key member of the delegation during São Paulo’s historic world championship victories in 1992 and 1993, underscoring his deep institutional knowledge and dedication.
The impeachment that shook São Paulo
Members of the São Paulo Futebol Clube Deliberative Council approved the impeachment request against president Julio Casares on Friday evening, January 16, 2025, at the Morumbis. The decision passed with a significant majority, garnering 188 votes out of 223 possible ballots cast.
The vote was primarily prompted by a public denouncement made in December 2024, which detailed an alleged scheme involving the irregular commercialization of Morumbis stadium suites on concert days. This accusation led to a thorough review by the council.
Consequently, Casares has been immediately removed from the club’s presidency. This interim removal will remain in effect until a General Assembly of club members convenes.
The General Assembly is tasked with either ratifying or overturning the decision made by the 223 councilors who participated in Friday’s critical meeting, both in person and virtually. Concurrently, police investigations into substantial sums allegedly received by Julio Casares are ongoing.
Calls for unity and a forward-looking approach
Massis Jr. made a heartfelt appeal for unity within the club’s vast community. He urged supporters and members alike to embrace confidence, patience, and, most importantly, solidarity during this transitional phase, emphasizing that hasty judgments and empty rhetoric have no place in the current climate.
The path ahead for São Paulo FC
As Harry Massis steps into the interim presidency, São Paulo FC faces a multifaceted challenge of restoring institutional stability, upholding transparency, and maintaining its competitive edge on the field. The new leadership’s immediate task is to navigate the ongoing investigations with integrity while ensuring that the administrative transition does not derail the club’s sporting ambitions. This period demands a renewed focus on internal governance, ethical practices, and a steadfast commitment to the values that define the Tricolor. With a seasoned veteran like Massis at the helm, the expectation is that the club will draw upon its rich history and the unwavering support of its vast fanbase to overcome current adversities and emerge stronger, ensuring that the legacy and future of São Paulo FC are diligently protected.
Harry Massis, São Paulo FC, Julio Casares impeachment, interim president, Morumbis
