The sports judge has delivered a stern verdict following the heated events that unfolded after the basketball match between Orvieto Basketball and Leoni Altotevere Basket. the game, which took place at the Pala “Papini” in Orvieto on January 19, concluded with a 74-87 victory for the visiting team. though, the post-match incidents have overshadowed the result, leading to notable disciplinary actions.
After reviewing the match report submitted by the lead referee, Leonardo Pressi of Terni (assisted by Pietro Ciacca of perugia), the sports judge, lawyer Gabriele Fagioli, imposed a series of penalties. the home team was fined 100 euros for “repeated and collective verbal abuse and threats directed at the referees by the home crowd.” Additionally,a fan from the home team was banned from attending matches for two games due to “intimidating and seriously offensive behavior” that occurred in the referees’ locker room after the match,where the fan allegedly attempted to prevent the referees from calling for security.
The harshest consequences,however,were reserved for the club’s managers,Fabio Marcante and Gabriele Borri. Marcante faced severe sanctions, including a ban from all basketball-related activities until July 21, 2026, for “offensive conduct toward the referees, refusing to leave the court after being ejected, and engaging in threatening behavior and an act of violence against the lead referee in the locker room, which resulted in minor injuries as per the medical report.” The judge emphasized that Marcante’s position as a club manager was considered an aggravating factor in the decision.
Borri, on the other hand, received a warning for “protesting referee decisions during the match” and a shorter ban, effective from January 21, 2025, to November 21, 2025, for “offensive behavior toward the referees and an act of violence against the lead referee in the locker room, which did not result in any physical harm.” The judge noted Borri’s prior incidents as a recurring factor in the ruling.
The Orvieto Basketball club has strongly contested the referee’s report and the subsequent penalties. They are preparing an urgent appeal to the FIP sports justice commission, seeking a comprehensive review of the incident. In a statement, the club clarified, “Orvieto Basketball 1946 categorically denies the allegations that the referee was attacked and hospitalized. This narrative is entirely inconsistent with the facts and lacks any corroborating evidence.”
The club further emphasized their commitment to clarity, stating, “We have already filed a formal appeal against the Sports Judge’s decision, which, in its initial phase, relies solely on the referee’s account.We believe it is essential to conduct an impartial investigation that considers all available evidence, including eyewitness testimonies and the full match footage, which paints a very different picture of the events.”
Borri added,“Orvieto Basketball 1946 is dedicated to uncovering the truth and ensuring the real sequence of events is brought to light,in full alignment with the values of the sport. We trust that the relevant authorities will approach this matter with objectivity and fairness, basing their judgment on concrete evidence. We remain available to provide any further clarification and will keep our supporters informed as the situation develops.”
ory behavior toward the referees as they left the court.”
The sports judge also noted the absence of serious injuries or property damage, which was a relief given the intensity of the incidents.However, he emphasized the need for stricter measures to ensure the safety of referees and officiating staff during and after matches. “Such behavior undermines the integrity of the sport and will not be tolerated,” Fagioli stated.
the incident has sparked discussions aboutfan conduct and the role of referees in maintainingfair play. Both teams have yet to issue official statements regarding the penalties.
