FIGC President Carlo Tavecchio describes a scandal over anti-semitic and homophobic remarks as “an obvious retaliation against me.”
Recordings emerged this weekend of the head of the Italian Federation making disparaging remarks, drawing criticism from CONI’s Giovanni Malago.
FIGC President Carlo Tavecchio describes a scandal over anti-semitic and homophobic remarks as “an obvious retaliation against me.”
Recordings emerged this weekend of the head of the Italian Federation making disparaging remarks, drawing criticism from CONI’s Giovanni Malago.
“I should point out, that it was not an interview, but a personal meeting requested by [Soccerlife's Massimiliano] Giacomini,” Tavecchio said in a statement on the FIGC’s official website.
“I’ve known him for years, I met him several times and that recording was made without my knowledge, a deplorable phenomenon which is unfortunately widespread these days.
“If you examine the events without bias, it’s an obvious retaliation against me by a person to whom I denied grants for his editorial activity, and who after my refusal has gone against the FIGC and a number of my people in a disparaging manner, of which I have already informed my lawyers.
“Having heard the audio, it’s clear that Giacomini is quoting Eco [Jews against the occupation of Palestine] and my words are clear, I reaffirmed my long personal and professional relationship of esteem.
“I’m glad that has been acknowledged by, among others, the Israeli ambassador in Italy, who I thank.
“With regard to the allegations of homophobia, that is not me. Here too, the audio is very clear, I say ‘I have nothing against homosexuals’, and I’ve never discriminated against anyone for those reasons.
“I respect everyone’s choices, and I don’t think anyone treated like a criminal for that.”