A head has just fallen in Italian gymnastics. The national federation announced in a press release that the technical director of the national rhythmic gymnastics team, Emanuela Maccarani (photo above), had been suspended from her duties. It was the subject of an investigation opened last year following testimonies from several ex-gymnasts denouncing pressure and humiliation linked to their diet and weight. Emanuela Maccarani, 56, abandons her role as DTN during the investigations. His interim role will be ensured by the president of the federation. But, surprise, she will continue to coach the team “ until the sports court makes its decision“. The investigation is being carried out by the Italian federation and the prosecutors of the city of Monza. It also concerns the deputy of the DTN, Olga Tisha. The procedure began after the revelations in the daily newspaper La Repubblica, last October and November, of three former members of the national rhythmic gymnastics team. Nina Corradini, 19 years old, Anna Basta, 21 years old, and Giulia Galtarossa, 31 years old, described being the subject of insults and moral harassment from team management. Since the start of the affair, Emanuela Maccarani has denied the facts. She assured this week in an interview with Corriere Della Sera never having exerted the slightest psychological pressure on the athletes. According to her, the accusations would be motivated by the frustration and bitterness of the gymnasts after their non-selection in the Olympic team.
