Di Canio loses appeal

Lazio striker Paolo Di Canio has lost his appeal against his one-match ban and €10,000 fine following his controversial raised arm salute against Livorno.

The disciplinary committee of the Italian League (Lega Calcio) have upheld the initial decision to punish Di Canio for the fascist salute he made after being substituted in the game on December 11.

Di Canio will miss Sunday’s game against Treviso and Lazio will also have to pay €2,000.

A statement from the disciplinary committee said: “His gesture breaches article one, which states that football professionals cannot evoke any type of political ideology with gestures in games.

“It evokes memories of the fascist regime, characterised by violence towards opponents as well as racial discrimination.”

Di Canio has already served a one-game ban following a similar incident in the match against Juventus on December 17.