Claudio Lotito reveals carrying weapons due to Lazio fan threats

Claudio Lotito, the 69-year-old owner of the Italian football club Lazio, has revealed that he has been forced to carry firearms for personal protection due to intense threats from fan factions. In statements made during investigations, Lotito disclosed that he previously carried both an automatic weapon and a Smith & Wesson handgun to protect himself while moving through Rome.

The conflict between the club's management and its supporters has escalated significantly, with fans calling for a change in ownership and boycotting matches at the Olimpico stadium. Lotito, who is also a senator for the Forza Italia party, reported receiving approximately 5,000 threatening calls daily and has filed numerous criminal complaints. He suggested that the coordinated violence and harassment may be driven by political motives.

Despite the security crisis and the ongoing tension with ultras, Lotito has firmly rejected any possibility of selling the club, stating that he has not received any formal offers and has no intention of stepping down. This internal turmoil occurs while the team remains competitive on the pitch, currently sharing the top of the Serie A table with Inter Milan.