Possible ban for Juventus directors after tunnel confrontation with referee

Reports in Italy suggest that Juventus directors Damien Comolli and Giorgio Chiellini face a possible ban for a tunnel confrontation with referee Federico La Penna during a tense Serie A match against Inter.

Juventus directors Comolli and Chiellini could be punished following their heated protests against referee La Penna during the half-time break of Saturday’s Serie A match against Inter.

Furious Chiellini and Comolli confronted Inter-Juventus referee

A video that has gone viral on social media shows the two directors facing the match official just inside the tunnel at the Stadio Meazza as the two teams head to the dressing room at half-time.

La Penna had sent off Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu just a few minutes earlier, infuriating the Bianconeri players and their directors.

Comolli attempted to confront La Penna directly, but Juventus coach Luciano Spalletti stepped in to hold him back, while Chiellini voiced his anger toward the referee.

Report Juventus director Comolli risks two-month ban

As reported by Gazzetta, referee La Penna likely mentioned the incident in his post-match report, which would lead to a suspension for both Chiellini and Comolli.

Without an official report from the referee, the FIGC Prosecutor would need to open a formal investigation.

Gazzetta notes that ‘while Chiellini’s remarks seem like strong criticism and are not necessarily insulting, Comolli’s verbal attack risks being considered as such and, consequently, could lead to a ban of at least two months.’