Juan Bernabé, the 56-year-old falconer known for flying Lazio’s iconic Olimpia eagle during the club’s home matches, has sparked significant controversy after sharing explicit post-surgery images and videos on social media. The Italian club, led by president Claudio Lotito, has since severed ties with Bernabé, ending his long-standing role with the team. This decision came after the falconer shared revealing photos documenting the results of a penile prosthesis surgery he underwent on January 11.
Falconiere Lazio Video
Bernabé, a father of two, has been a fixture at Lazio’s home games, where Olimpia, the golden eagle, has been a beloved symbol for fans. However, the club’s decision follows a history of controversies surrounding the falconer. Previously, he was suspended after performing a Roman salute and praising Mussolini, which raised eyebrows given Lazio’s historic ties to far-right groups.
This time, the controversy stems from his recent surgery. About 30 years ago, Bernabé lost a testicle in an accident, and despite claiming no sexual health issues, he opted to undergo a penile implant procedure to address a vascularization problem. In interviews, Bernabé explained that he no longer wished to rely on medication for sexual health and viewed his surgery as a path to improved well-being.
He defended his decision to share the post-operative images online, stating, “There’s nothing wrong with it; it’s an organ like any other.” He further emphasized that having a healthy sexuality is beneficial, and he encouraged men to consider such procedures.
Despite Bernabé’s defense, Lazio made it clear that his actions were unacceptable. In an official statement, the club expressed its shock upon seeing the images and reading Bernabé’s accompanying remarks. Lazio confirmed that it had terminated its relationship with the falconer, citing the seriousness of his behavior. The statement also made it clear that the club could no longer be associated with Bernabé, particularly given the symbolic role of Olimpia, the eagle, which has long been a part of Lazio’s home-game rituals.
Lazio acknowledged the pain that fans would feel from losing the eagle at future home matches, but stood firm in its decision. The club said, “It is not possible to be associated with a person who, with his initiative, has made the continuation of the relationship inadmissible.”
While Bernabé’s actions have led to his dismissal, he remains unapologetic, defending his choice to share the images as part of his belief in openness and a healthy approach to sexuality. Fans of the Biancocelesti, however, now face the loss of their beloved eagle at the upcoming matches, marking the end of an era at the Olympic Stadium.