Presenters Eleonora Incardona (34), Giusy Meloni (26), Diletta Leotta (33) and Marialuisa Jacobelli (33)—all affiliated with DAZN Italy—have drawn both praise and criticism for their on-air fashion choices. Among them, Diletta Leotta is particularly well known internationally as the wife of former Liverpool goalkeeper Loris Karius.
Criticism from Fellow Broadcaster
The controversy reached new heights after Valentina Maceri (31), a Champions League anchor for Swiss broadcaster Blue, publicly criticized the group in an interview with Bild. “Their attire fails to show any intention of engaging as equals with players or officials,” Maceri said. “It’s not just sexy—it borders on vulgar.”
In her book, Maceri has also previously written that the appearance and styling of Italian female sports reporters often “walk a fine line,” emphasizing image over professionalism.
Social Media Backlash and Mixed Reactions
Recently, Incardona posted a photo from the PSG vs. Bayern Munich match, wearing a striped cream suit over a bralette. The look, meant to be stylish, received mixed reactions online: “This is a football stadium, not a beach,” “Tired of broadcasters relying solely on looks” and “You’re the reason I even watch this tournament.”
Leotta’s Name Surfaces in Another Controversy
Leotta also became the subject of another headline when Eleonora Abbagnato, a famous Italian ballerina, revealed on-air that she felt uncomfortable with Leotta’s overly friendly behavior towards her husband, Federico Balzaretti, during his time working with DAZN. “I made it clear I was his wife. Her curves were undeniably intimidating,” Abbagnato stated.
While Leotta has not responded publicly to the remark, many have pointed out a double standard in how female sports presenters are scrutinized, with some defending them: “This is more about policing women’s appearances than protecting journalistic integrity.”
The debate has reignited broader questions about gender expectations, professionalism, and equality in sports media—not just in Italy, but across Europe.
