Juan Bernabe, Lazio’s long-serving falconer, the man responsible for the iconic eagle mascot Olympia’s matchday appearances since 2010, has found himself embroiled in a bizarre controversy that led to his dismissal and a subsequent protest. The 56-year-old Spaniard, a beloved figure at the Serie A club, shared explicit photos online following a penile implant surgery, an act that Lazio deemed incompatible with their image and resulted in his termination.
Bernabe’s decision to publicize his surgery, intended to “increase his sexual performance,” was met with disapproval from the club. He shared images of the results on social media, a move that Lazio considered a breach of their professional standards, particularly given his association with the symbolic eagle, Olympia. This ultimately led to the termination of his employment.
Following his dismissal, Bernabe took the drastic step of locking himself in his room at Lazio’s Formello training ground. He has expressed a desire to personally apologize to Lazio president Claudio Lotito, hoping to regain his position. His protest underscores the depth of his attachment to the club and his role as Olympia’s handler. He views his actions as a grave mistake and deeply regrets the impact they have had on the club, its fans, and especially on children who admire the eagle mascot.
In a public statement, Bernabe expressed remorse and apologized to the Italian people, particularly parents of minors, for the explicit nature of his online posts. He acknowledged the distress he caused Lazio fans and the club’s president, emphasizing his desire to reconcile. His primary concern appears to be the impact of his actions on children who adore Olympia, emphasizing that the eagle is the true symbol of Lazio and should not be tarnished by his personal mistake.
Bernabe further explained his decision to undergo the surgery, claiming it stemmed from a health issue and a desire to maintain an active sex life. While defending his right to share his experience, he admitted to posting the photos on his private profile and attributed their wider circulation to others. He maintains that his intentions were purely informational, aiming to raise awareness about the procedure. He underscored the medical purpose of the surgery and dismissed any suggestion that it was intended to create pornographic content. He reiterated his active sex life and the importance of maintaining sexual potency, highlighting his decision to opt for surgery rather than rely on medication.
Lazio’s official statement was concise and unequivocal, stating that it was impossible to continue their association with Bernabe, especially considering his connection with the symbolic eagle, after his actions. The club’s decision reflects their commitment to upholding a specific image and maintaining a professional standard for those associated with their brand. The incident underscores the potential consequences of sharing personal information online, particularly when it conflicts with the values and image of an organization one represents. Bernabe’s situation serves as a cautionary tale about the intersection of personal life, social media, and professional responsibilities.
