Lazio has fired the person in charge of the Italian soccer club’s eagle mascot after he posted photos and videos of his own prosthetic penis on social media.
Falcons coach Juan Bernabé shared the content on his private social media accounts after undergoing penile implant surgery, which he said was done for non-medical reasons.
Bernabé also gave an interview to the controversial Italian radio show “La Zanzara” on Monday, in which he explained in detail the reasons for the operation.
Bernabé added that he felt “very proud” and “more manly” as part of Lazio. However, it seems the Serie A club didn’t share the same opinion, as the Spaniard was sacked soon after.
“Shocked by the photos and videos of Mr. Juan Bernabé, as well as the accompanying statements, Lazio announces that it has terminated all relations with this person with immediate effect, given the seriousness of his behavior,” the club said in a statement.
“The club understands and shares the pain that the fans will feel due to the loss of the eagle at the next home games, but considers that it is not possible to continue cooperation with a person who, on his own initiative, made the continuation of the relationship unacceptable.”
The eagle — the bird that symbolizes ancient Rome — traditionally flies over the Stadio Olimpico before home games.
Bernabé said he does not regret sharing controversial content.
Lazio suspended the Bernabéo back in 2021 when he was filmed performing a fascist salute at the end of a match and chanting “Duce, Duce”, a name used to glorify former Italian fascist leader Benito Mussolini.
“I admire him very much,” Bernabé added in an interview on Monday.
(Vijesti.ba)
