Rome, Nov. 25 (LaPresse) – The President of the AIA, Antonio Zappi, and the National Committee once again express their deepest dismay and firm indignation regarding completely unacceptable acts of violence, the most serious of which occurred last Sunday during the Second Category match between Francica and U.S. Girifalco, held in Francica (VV). A young Calabrian referee of only seventeen years, to whom President Zappi and the National Committee extend their full solidarity and the embrace of Italy’s 33,000 referees, was violently struck multiple times in the face by a player. This episode adds to several others that have occurred in recent weekends across various Italian regions, worrying signs of a climate that cannot and must not be tolerated. The person responsible for the attack, also captured on television footage, will be prosecuted by the Association in all competent federal and non-federal venues. “It is hoped,” reads a statement from the AIA, “not only for an adequate sanctioning response from the sports system, but also – where applicable – the application of Article 583-quarter of the Penal Code, amended by the Government to punish and curb incidents like this. The AIA will also forward a report to the Federal Commission Responsible for Safeguarding Policies, considering the minor age of the assaulted referee, an element that makes the incident even more serious and unacceptable. We strongly reaffirm that the AIA will continue its battle against all forms of violence on football fields without pause. We will not be intimidated by those who, with irresponsible and cowardly behavior, attempt to ruin a sporting and social heritage that belongs to everyone. Football is and must remain a place of respect, education, and fair competition. The Association will continue to work with determination to protect its members and defend the values that underpin this sport.”
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