The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) allege that Rossi tried to ask club President Claudio Lotito to contact Lecce officials and discuss their tactics ahead of their match in April 2006, which Lazio won 1-0.The FIGC gave few details in a press statement but did say that Rossi's attempts had not been successful. "The coach Delio Rossi, has been charged with trying to ask, without success, the Lazio President Lotito to start talks with Lecce directors in a bid to affect the technical performance of the squad ahead of a match on April 30, 2006."
Lazio, who have also been charged as the responsible club, said Rossi was only talking about prospective signings and not anything more sinister.
"The club remains astonished at this development, born out of a subjective intepretation of a telephone conversation which contrasts with the clear and transparent explanation of the call's author," read a statement on the Rome club's official website adding it expected Rossi to be cleared.
A disciplinary commission will now decide if Rossi is guilty and deserves punishment. Media reports say the case had come to light because of phone tap evidence.
Lazio finished sixth in the 2005/06 Serie A season and in a UEFA Cup spot while Lecce were relegated to Serie B. However, the Biancocelesti were later deducted 30 points and ended up in 16th place as punishment for their part in the 2006 Calciopoli scandal.
Italian football has just recovered from the scandal which led to Juventus being demoted to Serie B and Lazio, AC Milan, Fiorentina, Reggina and Arezzo having points deducted.
Juve were promoted straight back to the top flight in May but criminal proceedings connected to the scandal are ongoing.
Source: C4 Football Italia / FIGC / Lazio
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