Lazio condemns Lulic's racist remark

Lazio issued an apology Sunday following a racist remark made by Senad Lulic that was aimed at Roma defender Antonio Rudiger.

The Lazio midfielder was annoyed by Rudiger's comments ahead of the Derby della Capitale and said that, until two years ago, Rudiger "was selling socks and belts in Stuttgart and now he thinks he's a phenomenon."

It was a claim that appears to be completely unfounded, and one that could lead to sanctions against Lulic.

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Lazio condemned the remark in a statement, as translated by Football Italia, saying:

The club is pained by these comments and the way they were interpreted. I apologise on behalf of the club, these are statements made in the heat of the moment by a player who just lost the derby, said Lazio director of communications Arturo Diaconale.

It went over the line. The controversy started with previous comments from the Roma player, but we all need common sense and to not blow this up.

The important thing is to recognise the error. We want competition to be in an atmosphere of fair play, which is Lazio’s style.

Lulic's comments represent a common racist stereotype in many countries throughout Europe.

According to Roma manager Luciano Spalletti, they also provide a glimpse into Lulic's personality.

"Let him speak. Let him say whatever he wants, because his words show the person he is," Spalletti said after his side's 2-0 victory.