Lautaro Martinez Agrees to Fine for Offensive Language

Inter Milan captain Lautaro Martinez has agreed to a fine with the Italian Football Federation for using offensive language during a match against Juventus.

Inter Milan captain Lautaro Martinez has avoided a suspension for blasphemy after agreeing to a fine with the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) for using offensive language during a match against Juventus. The Argentina striker will pay 5,000 euros (£4,200) as part of a plea bargain with the FIGC.

The FIGC has rules in place that prohibit taking the Lord's name in vain, and Martinez's comments during the match against Juventus were deemed to have breached these rules. By agreeing to the fine, Martinez has avoided a potential suspension, allowing him to continue playing for Inter Milan.

🤡 Inter striker #LautaroMartinez has accepted a €5,000 fine for blasphemous expressions during the match against #Juventus last February. 🤡 pic.twitter.com/GXvfCwBcHo

— Around Turin (@AroundTurin) April 7, 2025

The 27-year-old had previously denied using blasphemous language twice during February's 1-0 loss in Turin. He reiterated his denial the following week after scoring the winning goal for Inter against Genoa, stating, “I have never done it, ever.” He expressed frustration over the accusations, saying, “I try to teach respect to my children, these accusations have caused me great irritation.”

Martinez is not the first player to face penalties under the FIGC's anti-blasphemy rules. Goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon was banned for one match in March 2021 after being caught using foul language with Juventus teammate Manolo Portanova. Similarly, Monza goalkeeper Stefano Turati received the same punishment in August 2023 for blasphemous swearing during a defeat to Napoli while playing for Frosinone.