Brazilian player suspended for alleged racist gesture

RIO DE JANEIRO, Mar 8 (Reuters) Former AS Roma and Brazil defender Antonio Carlos has been given a provisional 60-day ban for allegedly making a racist gesture to an opponent during a game on Sunday.

A sporting tribunal in the southern state of Rio Grande do Sul announced the decision late last night after the incident during Juventude's 2-1 home defeat by Gremio in a regional championship.

The 35-year-old was sent off for elbowing Gremio's Jeovanio and was accused by his opponents of making a gesture on his arm which in Brazil is interpreted as racist.

On Monday, Antonio Carlos told reporters: ''I said a load of things in the heat of the moment, although I don't exactly remember what. I apologise.'' He is expected to face a hearing later this month when a final decision will be made.

Reuters AY BD1730