ITA – Fortitudo fall to Legadue confirmed by Federal Court

BOLOGNA (Lega Basket) – Fortitudo Bologna failed in their bid to avoid relegation after the Federal Court rejected their appeal to have last weekend’s game against Teramo replayed.

Following their one-point defeat to Teramo, Fortitudo argued they had two baskets incorrectly waved off, claiming the precision time equipment had malfunctioned.

The club also complained that Fortitudo sporting director Renato Nicolai had been hit in the face by a bottle while watching the game.

A club statement said on Thursday: “Fortitudo Basketball has learned of the decision made by the Federal Court which turned down their appeal.

“Despite having certainty they were in the right, and hence, feeling the need to appeal, the club has decided not to continue. The bitterness still remains.

“Despite being faced with the possibility of appealing to higher bodies, this would have meant the postponement of the play-offs causing irreparable damage to Italian basketball. Fortitudo have decided to stop here.

“Fortitudo accepts the verdict and will restart in Legadue.”

The club also confirmed that Sporting director Zoran Savic will remain next season.

Relegation completes a spectacular fall from grace for Fortitudo, who won the Italian title in 2005.

FIBA