Controversy surrounds fans’ celebration of Floriani Mussolini's goal.

Italy's football federation on Monday launched an investigation after supporters of Serie B club Juve Stabia celebrated a goal scored by Benito Mussolini's great grandson with fascist salutes.

Romano Floriani Mussolini, a 21-year-old right winger on loan from Lazio to second-division club Juve Stabia, scored his first professional goal in a 1-0 victory against Cesena on Sunday.

After Floriani Mussolini’s goal, the stadium announcer repeatedly called out “Romano,” to which the crowd enthusiastically responded with “Mussolini.”

Some fans were also seen performing the controversial stiff-armed Roman salute, a gesture historically associated with fascism.

The footballer's surname, tied to his great-grandfather and Italy's wartime fascist dictator Benito Mussolini, has drawn significant media attention. His mother, Alessandra Mussolini, a former politician, was present in the stands during the match.

Floriani Mussolini has previously stated his desire to be judged solely on his athletic performance, separate from the weight of his family name.

In a recent interview with Gazzetta dello Sport, he said: "There will always be some prejudice, but my work has nothing to do with it, and it doesn’t bother me. If it ever affected my career, it would be a great disappointment. What matters is what I do on the field."

Romano Floriani Mussolini, the great-grandson of Benito Mussolini, scored his first professional goal to lead Juve Stabia to a 1-0 victory vs. Cesena in Serie B.

This is how the fans reacted.

pic.twitter.com/3HFTSdThdI— Zach Lowy (@ZachLowy) December 22, 2024

The young footballer’s career is on the rise. After coming through Lazio’s youth system, he joined Juve Stabia on loan, where he is showcasing his potential.

Juve Stabia’s sporting director praised his physicality and prospects, stating: "His pace and strength make him stand out. I believe he has great potential."

However the celebration over his first goal has reignited debate in Italy about the use of symbols and gestures tied to fascism in sports. 

Photo: sport. es