Italian police and magistrates are examining photos and video to decide whether one of the country's best-known footballers gave a fascist salute. Paolo di Canio appeared to make the gesture after his team Lazio beat local rivals Roma by 3-1. Di Canio, a Lazio fan all his life, had played well and scored a stunning goal. On Saturday, though, Italian newspapers carried pictures of Di Canio's face distorted with pride. His right arm was apparently
Nothing apparent about it, it's the real il Duce. raised in a straight-armed Roman salute that would have been instantly recognised by the former fascist leader of Italy, Benito Mussolini. It would also have been recognised by the minority of far-right, racist supporters who have given Lazio a bad name over the years. It has now been confirmed that police are sifting through photographs and film footage of the incident to see if Di Canio's actions merit any criminal charge. Italy's football authorities are also expected to examine the evidence.