Lazio football club’s former falconer, Juan Bernabé, has spoken out following his dismissal, revealing he is on an “erectile mission” to inspire men facing similar challenges.
Bernabé was sacked by the Rome-based Serie A team after explicit images of his manhood, posted online, came to light.
The 62-year-old falconer, known for handling Lazio’s iconic mascot, Olympia the eagle, defended his actions, stating that his intent was purely educational, Bernabé underwent surgery to address a cardiovascular issue that impacted his sexual health and left him partially impotent.
Speaking to the Daily Star, he explained that the procedure allowed him to regain control of his erections.
“The video wasn’t pornographic,” Bernabé clarified. “It was scientific and informative. I wanted to show that men with similar problems don’t need to be afraid. This implant has allowed me to continue leading an active and fulfilling life in the sexual field.”
Bernabé emphasized that his decision to share the image was aimed at breaking stigmas and helping others who might face similar medical conditions.
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His tenure at Lazio wasn’t without its challenges as rival fans once filmed him appearing to perform a fascist salute and chanting “Duce, Duce,” a reference to Benito Mussolini, Italy’s former fascist dictator. These actions led to his suspension, although he was reinstated after the incident.
Despite his reinstatement, Bernabé’s career with Lazio came to an abrupt end when the latest controversy emerged. “After dedicating 15 years to this role, it’s disheartening to be dismissed over a private moment that was taken out of context,” he lamented.
The former falconer stressed that, despite being a public figure at Lazio, he has the right to make personal decisions about his body. “Behind the man who symbolized Lazio with its eagle is a private life,” Bernabé asserted. “I have the right to share my experiences and use my body as I see fit without compromising my personal freedom.”
While Bernabé acknowledges the controversial nature of his actions, he believes his contributions to Lazio over the past decade and a half should not be overshadowed by this incident. “There’s more to this story, and I’m confident the truth will come to light in the days ahead,” he concluded.
