The Italian Football Federation (Figc) has officially announced that head coach Simone Inzaghi and player Hakan Çalhanoğlu have been suspended for one Serie A match and will miss the match against Hellas Verona on 4 May.
According to the official statement of the Figc, both Inzaghi and Çalhanoğlu violate the Sports Justice code by dealing with a non -authorized Fangroep. In particular, they had incorrect contact with representatives from Inter's Ultra Group “Curva Nord”, including discussions with requests for competition tickets. In recent weeks, however, both parties have reached a pleid agreement with Figc officers of justice during the pre-test phase, which led to a reduction in fines.
Full list of penalties:
• Hakan Çalhanoğlu: 1-match prohibition, € 30,000 fine
• Simone Inzaghi: Prohibition of 1 competitions, fine of € 15,000
• Club Official Claudio Sala: 30-day prohibition from football activities, € 14,500 fine
• Club Official Massimiliano Silva: 30-day ban from football activities, € 14,500 fine
• Inter Vice President Javier Zanetti: € 14,500 fine
• Club Official Fabio Panza: 30-day ban from football activities, € 13,000 fine
• Inter Milan: € 70,000 fine
• AC Milan: € 30,000 fine (also investigated for similar incidents)
Background:
A study showed that since the 20222-23 season, Çalhanoğlu had repeatedly met Privé with leaders of Curva Nord, discussing ticket requests and violating Article 25, paragraph 10 of the Sports Justice Code, which prohibits contact with non-Cooperative Fangroeps. Simone Inzaghi admitted that he acted as an intermediary, by passing on ticket requests from ultra leaders to club managers prior to the UEFA Champions League final of 2023, hoping to stimulate team support.
Despite the permanent opposition of Inter against such behavior, both men continued their private interactions. Moreover, Milan Police Wiretaps showed that Çalhanoğlu was aware that his actions opposed club policy, but still continued. The case increased after killing an inter ultra in September 2023, which led to several arrests and Mafia-related charges against the Fangroep. Both Inzaghi and Çalhanoğlu were drawn into the investigation and questioned during hearings.