Not just violent fans: the Daspo, a measure that prohibits access to stadiums, can also affect footballers. This is what happened to Biagio Meccariello, defender of Benevento Calcio, who will no longer be able to attend live matches for a year due to unsportsmanlike conduct during a championship match.
The incident dates back to October 31, during the match between FC Crotone and Benevento, valid for the Lega Pro championship – group C, held at the Ezio Scida stadium in Crotone. In the minutes of injury time of the second half, Meccariello, while he was near his team's bench, threw a bottle of water towards the Curva Sud, occupied by Crotone fans. An act considered seriously unsportsmanlike, which was defined by the public safety bodies as part of an episode of verbal violence, threats and intimidation, capable of compromising public order and safety.
The episode was promptly reported by the Italian Football Federation, which sanctioned Meccariello with a one-match suspension. Subsequently, the Crotone police chief issued a Daspo against him, with the ban on accessing stadiums to attend football matches for one year. However, the footballer will still be able to enter sports facilities during the performance of his professional duties, i.e. as part of the team.
The Crotone Police Headquarters has underlined the importance of transmitting values of fair play, especially considering the example that footballers should give to the new generations of fans who follow football. “Meccariello's bad behavior has also been stigmatized for the negative example he has given to young people who are approaching this sport,” the Police Headquarters declared.
Article published on 18 December 2024 - 12:51
It's a bit of a complicated situation, but I think the Daspo is right in certain cases. Footballers must set a good example, otherwise young fans can learn bad behavior. Let's hope Meccariello reflects on this.