The Rome prosecutor’s office has launched a major investigation concerning the recent Lazio sale following a complaint filed by Claudio Lotito.
The Background
In recent months, some sources have claimed that the Biancocelesti patron is negotiating a sale with investors interested in buying the Roman club. JPMorgan Chase was one of the names floating around, with one report suggesting that the American fund is ready to invest €450 million to buy the club.
These circulating stories apparently had a positive effect on Lazio’s share price, which surged compared to last year, even with the club enduring difficult times on and off the pitch (especially last season).
Three Men Under Investigation for Alleged Lazio Plot
As La Repubblica (via La Lazio Siamo Noi) explains, the prosecutor’s office is currently investigating these rumours, looking into the connection between the Il Tempo editor Luigi Bisignani, former general director of Rai and current president of Banca del Fucino, and Francesco Maiolini, who is also a top official at the same bank.
In his article on JPMorgan’s interest in buying Lazio, Bisignani mentioned Masi and Maiolini as trusted figures who could play an important role in the acquisition. The investigators are thus tracking the phone calls between the three men, especially the ones that occurred between the end of May and early June, suspecting a plot aiming to manipulate the club’s share price on the stock market.
The Link With the Anti-Lotito Protest
The report adds that the prosecutor’s office had also looked into a potential bond between these three men and the organised Lazio fan groups, who have been protesting against Lotito, urging him to sell the club.
The investigators reportedly concluded that the fan protest is genuine, but they suspect that the previously mentioned trio may have tried to ride the bandwagon since it suits their alleged agenda.
Lotito Comments on Investigation
Il Corriere della Sera (via La Lazio Siamo Noi) picked up Lotito’s brief comment on the matter. The Lazio patron believes the investigation will reveal the truth behind the plot against him and his administration as he patiently awaits the outcome.
Better to keep quiet, it’s the beginning of the movie.
I could recall everything I have experienced and am experiencing in these years, but it wouldn’t be fair to those investigating. it’s a very delicate phase .
