(Source: AP) Lazio, the Serie A football club, has fired Juan Bernabé, the falconer responsible for the club’s eagle mascot, following a controversial incident where he posted explicit photos and videos of his prosthetic penis on social media. Bernabé, who had recently undergone penile implant surgery for non-medical reasons, shared the images on his private accounts. He also discussed the procedure and his pride in it during an interview with the controversial Italian radio show, ‘La Zanzara’, on Monday.
The club swiftly responded, issuing a statement expressing shock over the explicit content and the statements made by Bernabé. Lazio emphasized that such behavior was unacceptable, especially in light of the responsibility Bernabé held as part of the club’s identity and fan culture. The club also acknowledged the disappointment of fans who would miss seeing the eagle mascot during upcoming home matches but stated that maintaining a relationship with Bernabé was no longer feasible.
The incident follows a previous controversy in 2021, when Bernabé was suspended after being filmed praising Italian dictator Benito Mussolini. Despite the firing, Bernabé refused to leave the club’s training ground, where he had lived for 15 years. Reports indicate that he is waiting to speak with Lazio president Claudio Lotito, who has since made it clear that there would be no forgiveness.
Additionally, the club’s decision extended to Gabriele Antonini, the doctor who performed Bernabé’s surgery, though Antonini clarified that he was not under contract with the club, but worked on a consultancy basis.
Lotito, speaking to the media, expressed his disbelief at Bernabé’s actions, highlighting his own personal values, including his commitment to church and moral conduct. He further condemned Bernabé’s behavior, calling it irreconcilable with the club’s principles.
