Totti's Moscow Visit Sparks Controversy Amidst Diplomatic Tensions

Former Italian football star Francesco Totti faces criticism for attending a Moscow event, viewed as a political maneuver supporting Russia. He's willing to cancel if an official request is made. Italy's government remains silent, but opposition urges him not to go, highlighting diplomatic sensitivities.

Francesco Totti, the celebrated former striker for Italy and AS Roma, announced on Tuesday his readiness to cancel an upcoming trip to Moscow following criticism that it served as a publicity stunt for President Vladimir Putin's Russia. Totti, who retired in 2017 and holds immense popularity both in Italy and internationally, was invited as a guest of honour to a gala event hosted by Bookmaker Ratings, a Russian online sports betting platform.

The event, organized for April 8, has been heavily promoted in Moscow with large digital billboards featuring Totti in his iconic number 10 shirt, accompanied by the phrase 'The Emperor is going to the third Rome.' The term 'Third Rome' signifies a historic concept embraced by nationalists and religious conservatives, depicting Moscow and Russia as successors to the Roman Empire and defenders of Christendom.

Totti conveyed through the Italian news agency ANSA, "For days, my business trip to Moscow has stirred continuous debate. However, I am neither a politician nor a diplomat, but rather a sportsman who promotes its values globally." He added that should a formal request from a relevant authority arise, he would not hesitate to withdraw from attending the Moscow event. Meanwhile, Italy's conservative government, which has shown support for Ukraine amidst Russian aggression, has yet to comment on Totti's proposed visit. In contrast, opposition politicians have advocated for him to reconsider his trip.

(With inputs from agencies.)