Supposedly “without warning”
Successful trainer fired for allegations of abuse
03/27/2025 – 2:12 p.m.Reading time: 1 min.
In Germany, the gymnastics scene is currently dealing with a scandal. In Italy there is now excitement in rhythmic sports gymnastics.
Since the serious allegations of abuse by German gymnasts and ex-athletes at the end of last year, the gymnastics scandal Germany has employed and there are investigations. Such are also taking place in Italy too. In addition, the technical director and head coach of the rhythmic sports gymnastics, Emanuela Maccarani, was released. The association announced this on Wednesday.
Allegations of abuse against Maccarani have been circulating since 2022 – the public prosecutor has already investigated the trainer. In a book, the former athlete Nina Corradini describes how the trainer is said to have pushed athletes into drastic fasting programs, among other things.
An Italian sports court had already warned Maccarani for insulting statements. So far, however, she has been able to continue her activity. Maccarani himself rejects the allegations. She said to Italian media that she was “without warning” by her release. The athletes reacted “in tears” when they found out about it.
Andrea Facci, the new president of the Italian association, is responsible for the decision. He announced a fundamental change in culture in the association. At the Olympic Games in Paris, Maccarani and her student Sofia Raffaeli had cheered on bronze in singles.