Belo Horizonte, April 10 (IANS): Brazilian defender Fabricio has joined defending national Serie A champions Cruzeiro, just three days after being axed by rivals Internacional for abusing his own fans.

Cruzeiro on Thursday signed the 28-year-old on loan until July 31 with the option of making the move permanent, reports Xinhua.

At a press conference at Cruzeiro's Belo Horizonte headquarters, Fabricio asked for forgiveness from Internacional's fans.

"I'd like to apologize to Inter. It shouldn't have happened, but only I really know what really went on," Fabricio said.

"I am grateful for the four years I had at Internacional. The club gave me everything and I got along well with everybody.

"There was no racism as some people have suggested. I want to say sorry to the people who supported me."

Fabricio was sent off during Internacional's match against Ypiranga on April 1 after raising the middle finger of each hand towards the team's fans. He was roundly jeered as he left the pitch and was suspended by the club after the match.

Internacional president Vitorio Piffero on Monday told the left-back that he was no longer welcome.

The incident has also led to charges from a local sports tribunal carrying a combined maximum penalty of 12 matches.

Cruzeiro football manager Valdir Barbosa revealed that the club had been long-time admirers of Fabricio.

"We have tried to sign him before," Barbosa said. "On the day of the incident (against Ypiranga) I got in touch with Internacional to find out his situation.

"As soon as the decision was made to let him go, we acted immediately. The deal was done in 10 minutes."