Paolo Di Canio Suspended from Sky Sport Italia Due to Fascist Tattoo on Arm

Paulo Di Canio has been suspended as a pundit by Sky Sport Italia after presenting a show with a fascist tattoo clearly visible on his arm.

Per ESPN FC's Ben Gladwell, the former Lazio and West Ham United forward's "Dux" tattoo was on show on his right upper-arm when he appeared wearing a short-sleeved T-shirt, and it drew a number of complaints.

The word "dux" is the Latin origin for Italian's "duce," and Il Duce was a title used by Italy's former fascist leader Benito Mussolini, per BBC Sport.

The ANSA news agency (via Gladwell) relayed quotes from Sky's executive vice-president, Jacques Raynaud, explaining the situation that led to Di Canio's suspension: 

"

We were made aware of a bit of emotion on social networks for a picture of our talented host Paolo Di Canio, with a certain tattoo showing on his arm.

We made a mistake. We apologise to all those who we have offended. After talking at length with Di Canio and in spite of his professionalism and football competence, we have decided together to suspend his collaboration with us.

"

Goal provided an image of Di Canio displaying the tattoo in question:

Di Canio, 48, has a chequered history when it comes to his fascist beliefs.

In January of 2005, he was fined €10,000 after making a fascist, raised-arm salute towards Lazio fans after a win over rivals Roma, only to repeat the action following a defeat of Livorno later in the year.

Per the Guardian, he said at the time: "I saluted my people with what for me is a sign of belonging to a group that holds true values, values of civility against the standardisation that this society imposes upon us. I'm proud to be able to count on such people and I will continue to salute them in this way."

PAOLO COCCO/Getty Images

He refused to answer questions on his political beliefs when he was installed as Sunderland manager in 2013, and one-time foreign secretary David Miliband resigned from the Black Cats' board as a result of his appointment, per BBC Sport.

It is unclear whether Di Canio is banned from working for Sky Sport Italia ever again or if the suspension is temporary.