Serie A club Lazio has officially parted ways with their long-time falconer, Juan Bernabé, after he shared explicit images and videos on social media, showcasing his penile implant surgery.
This decision marks an abrupt end to Bernabé’s tenure, where he was responsible for the symbolic pre-match flight of the club’s eagle mascot, Olimpia.
The incident came to light when local media reported Bernabé’s posts, prompting immediate action from the football club.
Lazio issued a statement acknowledging the termination, emphasizing that it had become “impossible to associate our historical symbol with such (an) individual.” The club expressed regret over the absence of the eagle from future home games, recognizing the disappointment it would cause among the fans.
Bernabé, who had been with Lazio since 2010, was not new to controversy. In 2021, he was suspended by the club after a video emerged showing him engaging in fascist salutes and chants at the stadium post-match against Inter Milan.
This earlier incident involved Bernabé chanting “Duce, Duce,” referring to the nickname of Italian dictator Benito Mussolini.
Despite the severity of these actions, the club had at that time managed to continue Bernabé’s employment, albeit with a suspension.
The recent sacking, however, has been met with varied reactions from the public and media.
Some argue it reflects a zero-tolerance policy towards personal conduct that could tarnish the club’s image, while others question the timing and motives behind the decision, especially given Bernabé’s previous political expressions were met with less severe action.
Lazio fans, who have come to cherish Olimpia’s pre-game flights as a club tradition, are now left wondering how the club will continue this ritual.
Lazio has not yet announced plans for a replacement or how they will handle the mascot’s appearances.
The dismissal has sparked a broader conversation about the responsibilities of individuals representing sports teams and how clubs manage their public image amidst personal and political controversies.
Lazio’s swift action in this case underscores a commitment to maintaining their brand’s integrity, though it also highlights ongoing challenges in addressing and preventing such incidents in the future.
This story continues to develop as Lazio navigates through the implications of this decision both on and off the pitch.
