The Italian men’s water polo team will be absent from next year’s World Cup after receiving a six-month ban from all World Aquatics competitions, imposed by the Aquatics Integrity Unit (AQIU). The sanction stems from a serious incident involving the abusive treatment of referees and officials during the Tokyo Olympics, following Italy’s quarter-final loss to Hungary.
The AQIU’s ruling identified the team’s actions as a violation of Article 5 of the World Aquatics Integrity Code, which prohibits violent and disrespectful behavior in sports. In addition to the suspension, Italy has been fined $50,000 (£41,500).
Incident details
The contentious match took place on August 7, where Italy had a goal disallowed due to a “violent action” determined by a VAR review. Coach Alessandro Campagna protested the decision in an aggressive manner, and the match ended in a dramatic penalty shootout, with Hungary winning 12-10 after regular time finished 9-9.
Following the game, the Italian team lodged a formal protest with the referees, which was dismissed. This rejection prompted Campagna and his players to verbally and physically confront referees and World Aquatics delegates in the venue’s parking lot.
Threatening behavior
In its 10-page verdict, the AQIU detailed instances of threatening conduct by Campagna, who allegedly told the referees, “What do you know about water polo? You are from Montenegro… Your career as a referee is finished.” This behavior further exemplified the team’s disregard for the integrity of the sport.
The day after the incident, Italy also protested the VAR decision prior to their classification match against Spain. In a show of defiance, the team turned their backs on the officials during the national anthems, further violating the established protocols.
Acknowledgment and apology
The Chief Ethics and Compliance Officer of the AQIU formally charged the Italian team on August 23. By September 9, they admitted to the allegations and submitted an apology letter from Campagna. The AQIU emphasized that Article 5 of the integrity code explicitly forbids any actions that interfere with the orderly conduct of an event.
Future implications
Italy, the silver medallists from the 2023 World Cup, will be eligible to return to competition after their suspension ends in April 2025. They will then be able to participate in the World Aquatics Championships, scheduled to take place in Singapore from July 11 to August 3.
This ruling underscores the importance of sportsmanship and the consequences of failing to uphold the integrity of the sport, serving as a stern reminder to athletes and officials alike.
