Emanuela Maccarani, the former head coach of the Italian national rhythmic gymnastics team, has been ordered to stand trial on charges of aggravated mistreatment of minors. The decision was made by the preliminary hearings judge (GUP) Silvia Pansini in Monza, with the trial set to begin on February 10.
The case has revealed a division among athletes. Five members of the national team, Alessia Maurelli, Agnese Duranti, Daniela Mogurean, Martina Santandrea, and Laura Paris, have submitted individual letters to Judge Pansini expressing support for their former coach. They stated, “We do not identify as victims; Emanuela Maccarani was an important person in our lives, both in sport and beyond.” Their position contrasts with that of other former gymnasts who have accused Maccarani of abuse and inappropriate behavior during training.
Speaking after the hearing, Maccarani denied the allegations. “I never made these statements, I never called anyone ‘fat’ or used the other terms that have appeared in the newspapers. Everything is fully explained in the defense briefs, which have never been read or taken into consideration,” she said. She added, “Finally, there will be a trial, and finally my position can be taken into account.”