Lazio apologise to fans after Lecce defeat: ‘You deserve new ambitions’

Originally posted on Football Italia | By Alessandro Bai | Last updated May 26, 2025 8:17 AM ET

Lazio’s 1-0 home defeat to Lecce on the final matchday of the Serie A season — a result that saw the Biancocelesti miss out on European football for the first time in eight years — prompted the club to issue an official apology to their fans.

Having won just once in their final five league outings, Marco Baroni’s side squandered what had been a promising start to the campaign, which had briefly put them in contention for a Champions League spot.

Reflecting on the loss at the Stadio Olimpico, Baroni admitted he was “mortified” by the outcome, as frustrated home supporters hurled insults at the players and refused to let them approach the Curva Nord for the customary post-match salute.

In a statement released on Monday, the club thanked fans for their unwavering support and stressed that ‘the club, the coach and the players’ all share full responsibility for the disappointing end to the season.

Lazio issue official apology to fans after Lecce defeat: ‘Responsibility lies with us’

“Before thanking you for your constant support, we feel it is our duty to apologise for the end of this season, which has irreparably compromised much of the good work that had been built,” the statement reads.

“In a season of two halves — the first of which was even exhilarating at times — the result against Lecce has left us out of European competitions after eight consecutive years of qualification.

“The responsibility lies with us: the club, the coach, and the players. With everyone but you, the fans, who once again showed extraordinary, passionate, and tireless support.

“It is from you that we will begin again, protecting and strengthening that unique and special bond which represents the strongest foundation for our future. We still have in our minds the stunning displays you created for the biggest matches this year — a visible symbol of your passion and unwavering loyalty.

“We will hold on to the positives this season has still given us — the 65 points earned and the determination shown until the very end — but we will also carefully analyse everything that didn’t work.

“The club is already working to plan the pre-season and prepare for the new campaign, fully aware that you, the Biancocelesti faithful, deserve new and undiminished ambitions, with our eyes firmly set on a brighter and winning future — one that we are determined to build together, starting with the club itself.

“We exist because you are here.

“This disappointment will be the starting point to come back stronger, more united, and more motivated than ever — with the goal of taking Lazio back to where it belongs. We will keep fighting together — the team, the club, and the fans — to honour our colours and achieve new milestones.

“Long live Lazio, long live the Laziali!”

This article first appeared on Football Italia and was syndicated with permission.

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