São Paulo FC experienced a tumultuous first half of 2026, filled with ups and downs, painful eliminations, and backstage pressure. Beyond the results on the field, the club found itself embroiled in refereeing controversies that generated significant backlash among fans and officials. Gazeta Esportiva recalls three controversial episodes that have marked the season so far. In the quarter-finals of the Campeonato Paulista, São Paulo FC defeated Red Bull Bragantino 2-1, but the match was marred by a refereeing controversy. In the final minutes, with one player down, the Tricolor saw a penalty request from Juninho Capixaba denied by referee Daiane Muniz. After the match, Gustavo Marques from Bragantino strongly criticized the officiating. In the semi-final against Palmeiras, São Paulo FC also felt wronged. A handball by Gustavo Gómez was not called as a penalty, sparking outrage within the club and calls for greater transparency from the CBF. Finally, in the opening match of the Campeonato Brasileiro, a controversy involving Arrascaeta from Flamengo left São Paulo FC players dissatisfied, as the referee's decision not to award a penalty could have changed the outcome of the game. These situations reflect the tension and pressure São Paulo FC faces in a challenging year.