In brief
The club's decision was met with mixed reactions from fans, prompting discussions about professional conduct and the influence of public figures.
Lazio, the storied Italian football club, has found itself in the middle of an unexpected controversy following the dismissal of falconer Juan Bernabe. Known for flying the club's eagle mascot, Olimpia, during home matches held at Stadio Olimpico, Bernabe was let go after sharing explicit images and videos of his prosthetic penis on social media.The club has responded by expressing shock at Bernabe’s actions, stating that they found it impossible to associate their historical symbol, the eagle, with such behavior. "We are aware of the shared pain that the loss of the eagle will cause to fans for upcoming home matches. However, it was necessary to take a firm stand on this matter," a club spokesperson stated.Juan Bernabe has defended his actions, suggesting that the intent behind sharing the content was to raise awareness of his recent surgical procedure. He emphasized that he belongs to an open-minded family and views nudity as normal. "I grew up in a naturist family, and this was a personal decision I've made," he remarked in an interview with Radio24.This is not the first time Bernabe has been in the spotlight due to controversy. In 2021, he faced suspension for performing a fascist salute during a match, an act he later claimed to support Benito Mussolini's legacy, stating, "Mussolini did great things for Italy." The dual incidents have raised questions about the conduct of individuals in public roles and their responsibilities as representatives of their respective organizations.Lazio now faces the challenge of re-establishing the connection with supporters who have enjoyed Bernabe's presence at matches for over a decade. As discussions continue, it remains to be seen how the club will address the evolving situation and reinforce its values going forward.
