CONMEBOL changes warm-up rules at Copa América Femenina after Brazil protests

CONMEBOL — South American football’s governing body — announced changes to warm-up procedures at the ongoing Copa América Femenina in Ecuador.

Marta, Brazil’s captain, along with teammate Ary Borges and coach Arthur Elias previously criticized the provided warm-up facilities — a 15-square-meter room that smelled of paint.

“It’s been a long time since I played in a tournament in South America, and we were saddened by these circumstances. Athletes are expected to perform well and work hard, but we also have to demand a high level of organization,” Marta told Globo Esporte.

The rule change now allows all outfield players to warm up on the pitch for 15 minutes — previously only goalkeepers were permitted. The prior restriction was implemented to preserve field conditions with two matches played per day.

Brazil — currently leading Group B with two victories — will face Paraguay in their next match. Earlier, the defending champions also struggled to assess Kerolin’s fitness, who eventually became sidelined due to these warm-up restrictions.