Marotta: ‘Lotito personal attack’

Juventus director general Beppe Marotta slammed the “paradoxical” ruling that stops him suing Lazio President Claudio Lotito.

The incident occurred a few months ago, when Lotito made an off-colour joke about Marotta’s eye condition.

This week the FIGC accepted Lotito’s plea bargain and €10,000 fine, but also refused Marotta permission to sue the Lazio chief in a civil court for damages.

Juventus director general Beppe Marotta slammed the “paradoxical” ruling that stops him suing Lazio President Claudio Lotito.

The incident occurred a few months ago, when Lotito made an off-colour joke about Marotta’s eye condition.

This week the FIGC accepted Lotito’s plea bargain and €10,000 fine, but also refused Marotta permission to sue the Lazio chief in a civil court for damages.

“I am frankly stunned, as it was purely a personal attack, completely unrelated to football. I thought the authorisation would be a formality,” Marotta told Sky Sport Italia.

“It’s paradoxical that someone can offend another person and get a €10,000 fine, whereas if I sued him for the offensive comments then I could get banned for a year.

“As I said, it’s paradoxical, but this is our Federation. Will I stop the legal battle here? I don’t know, we will evaluate it.”

Anyone registered with the Federation must ask permission before taking legal action against any other members.

Marotta was speaking ahead of tonight’s Serie A clash with Fiorentina, which saw Max Allegri rotate the squad.

“Allegri sees the players every day, so can evaluate their performances and their characteristics. In any case, Juventus is a group of co-starters, so those who start are considered the best for this match.”