The company sued Band, which was ordered to pay damages for moral harm and to read excerpts of the judgment in Brasil Urgente. In the decision, the judge found that Datena had acted with “distemper” and “insubordination” and had accused the company of serious crimes without any basis (racism and lack of financial integrity).
According to the trial, Datena himself would be responsible for reading the verdict. In his absence, the reading can be carried out by another person appointed by the company.
Band appealed, stating that the presenter gave a narrative and critical account of Alitalia's poor service without committing any abuse or exceeding the limits of freedom of expression.
“The report constituted a matter of public interest that is essential for citizens to consider the company's stance in the face of the apparent practice of overbooking,” Band told the court.
However, the broadcaster lost its appeals and the conviction became final in 2020.
Because the terms of the sentence were not respected, judge Cassio Brisola imposed a fine of R$4.7 million at the end of last year.