Buffon defends right to free speech after controversial Scommessopoli comments

ITALY

GROUP C

The Juventus goalkeeper intimated earlier this week that it is only natural that teams will sometimes agree on a draw if a point suits both sides, a view which was not well received in light of the ongoing investigation into match-fixing within the Italian game.

Buffon, though, declined the opportunity to hit back during a press conference at Coverciano on Wednesday, but did declare that he was standing by his comments.

"I will not tell you what I'm thinking about the controversies that have arisen after my statement," he explained.

"I can only say that it has been the umpteenth confirmation that those who have a clear conscience are not free to express their thoughts.

"Criticism is also normal, but the right to express one's thoughts should always be preserved. Anyway, like I always have done, I take responsibility for my comments."

Buffon also responded to Italian Prime Minster Mario Monti's suggestion that football should be suspended for two to three years in light of the latest corruption scandal.

"I think that a suspension would mean penalising the majority of players who are without blame," the World Cup winner argued.

"The important thing is to make the right distinction between abnormal behaviour and criminal behaviour."

Visit link:
Buffon defends right to free speech after controversial Scommessopoli comments