Santos World Champions Sue Umbro and Walk Away with US$ 103,000

09/03/2015 - 12h31

Santos World Champions in 1962 and 1963, former players Lima, Pepe, Dorval, Gylmar (who died in 2013), Mengálvio and Coutinho received R$ 65,000 from the English brand Umbro in an agreement made after legal action was taken due to the misuse of their images.

In gross numbers, the former athletes earned almost R$ 500,000, but once the taxes and costs of the process were applied, they remained with R$ 390,000 altogether. According to attorney Miguel Rollo, who represented them, the amounts have already been deposited in their respective bank accounts.

In 2003, the English brand used the image of the Santos team in a kit to commemorate the world championship's 40 years, but without the authorization of the former athletes. Nicknamed "curinga da Vila" or "Vila WIldcard" for his versatility, Lima, 73, confirmed the agreement.

	Gabo Morales/Folhapress
	The brand used the image of the Santos team in a kit to commemorate the world championship's 40 years.

"I received the money and I am already putting it to good use. I'm joking, the money has been safely put away. Laws exist to be followed. It doesn't cost anything to communicate, since they used our image to promote their brand", he explained.

Since he worked for Santos and the team was sponsored by Umbro at the time, Zito, who passed away in June of this year, decided not to participate in the proceedings.

The santistas were aided by the Association of Football World Champions, led by Gilmar's son, attorney Marcelo Neves.

When reached by the Folha, Umbro confirmed the agreement via the press office.

"Umbro acknowledges that there was a dispute and reports that, after several negotiations, we reached an agreement that respects the interests of both sides. This initiative reflects the company's respect and an acknowledgement of the importance of these players in the history of the club and in brazilian football."

Translated by SUGHEY RAMIREZ

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