'Not smart' - Denzel Dumfries admits holding up 'inappropriate' Theo Hernandez banner was an 'error of judgement' as Italian FA prosecutors investigate Inter star's actions at Serie A title parade

During the Serie A title celebratory parade from the San Siro to Piazza Duomo, Dumfries held up a banner featuring an edited image from the 'Grand Theft Auto' game which depicted the Dutch wing-back holding Hernandez on a chain leash, with the AC Milan defender's head morphed onto the body of a dog. The gesture was a taunt aimed at Hernandez after the pair clashed during the derby with Milan, where Inter secured the title with a 2-1 win over their city rivals.

Reflecting on his actions, Dumfries put out a lengthy Instagram post which read: "Yesterday was the most beautiful day for me, all the players, and everyone at the club. Thank you so much to the fans who turned out in their thousands at the parade. It was a great feeling to celebrate with all of you, it meant so much to the team. During the parade, I held up a banner that displayed an inappropriate image. I am a player who loves rivalry in football, it is a crucial part of any game. I realise that holding up the banner was an error of judgement on my part and not smart at all. Let’s move on to focusing on what has been the most amazing season for Inter Milan. Thank you once again for all your support this season, and for the celebrations yesterday, I will never forget them."

Despite Inter president Steven Zhang's call for celebrating respectfully, Dumfries succumbed to the temptation of targeting Hernandez, and is now reportedly under investigation by Italian FA prosecutors, according to FCInterNews.

This incident is not unprecedented during celebratory parades. It must be noted that Hernandez himself was involved in a similar controversy during AC Milan's previous title celebrations in 2022 along with a few of his team-mates, including Rade Krunic, Sandro Tonali, and Mike Maignan. On that occasion, they were handed a fine by the Italian FA as their actions violated Article 4 of the Code of Sporting Justice which deals with “fairness and sportsmanship” in sport.

Dumfries might also escape by paying a fine to the authorities. However, the defender is expected to appeal the ruling if found guilty of wrongdoing. Meanwhile, he will return to action with Inter against Sassuolo on Saturday in an inconsequential league fixture, having already won the championship. Hernandez and Milan, meanwhile, are due to face Genoa a day later.