Italian Court Acquits Lazio Ultras of Extortion Attempt

The Court of Appeal in Rome has acquitted former members of the Lazio ultras group known as the "Irriducibili" of attempted extortion against club president Claudio Lotito. The verdict overturns a prior conviction, with judges concluding that the actions constituted a harsh protest rather than a scheme to force Lotito to relinquish his ownership of the club. The court noted that there was no proof the fans intended to induce the sale of Lotito’s shares, emphasizing the right of supporters to criticize club officials.

Key figures mentioned include former ultras leader Fabrizio Piscitelli, nicknamed "Diabolik," as well as lawyer Fabio Di Marziantonio and penalist Luca Marafioti, who were also cleared of the charge.