ROME - Antonino Pizzolato, a two-time Olympic medalist in weightlifting, is currently on trial for aggravated group sexual violence. The charges stem from an incident on July 22, 2022, when Pizzolato and three friends are accused of raping a 27-year-old Finnish tourist in a residence on the Trapani seafront, according to Il Fatto Quotidiano. The victim, who had been drinking, was allegedly left alone by her friends and taken to the residence, where the assault occurred. The violence reportedly stopped only when she tearfully requested to return to her hotel.

 Pizzolato, alongside his co-defendants, is accused of taking advantage of the victim's impaired state, preventing her from resisting the assault. The trial, which began in February 2024, has sparked controversy as Pizzolato was already facing serious charges when he competed in the Paris 2024 Olympics. The case raises ethical concerns about athletes participating in international events while under criminal investigation.

 In addition to the ongoing rape trial, Pizzolato has a history of legal issues. In 2018, he was disqualified for 10 months by the Italian Weightlifting Federation due to allegations of threats, intimidation, and violence against colleagues. He was also accused of showing explicit videos to minors. These past issues compound the serious nature of the current charges against him.

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