Italian Swimmers Pilato and Tarantino Detained for Theft at Singapore Airport: “Involved Against My Will,” Says Pilato
Rome, Italy – August 30, 2025 – A shocking incident has rocked the Italian swimming community, as national team athletes Benedetta Pilato and Chiara Tarantino were detained at Singapore’s Changi Airport on suspicion of theft, just weeks after competing in the World Aquatics Championships. The two pugliese swimmers, who had extended their stay in Asia for a private vacation, were stopped by authorities on August 14, 2025, after surveillance cameras allegedly captured them taking items from a duty-free shop without payment. The episode, which unfolded during a period of relaxation following the championships, ended without formal charges thanks to swift intervention by the Italian Embassy and the Foreign Ministry (Farnesina), but it has sparked controversy, with Pilato publicly denying any intentional wrongdoing and hinting at betrayal by those around her.
Pilato, the 20-year-old breaststroke sensation and bronze medalist in the 50m breaststroke at the Singapore Worlds (held July 31 to August 3, 2025), addressed the matter in a lengthy Instagram post on August 29. “Against my will, I was indirectly involved in an unpleasant episode handled by Singapore’s airport authorities,” she wrote, describing the ordeal as deeply traumatic during what should have been a time of rest. “I have never intended to commit any inappropriate acts, and those who know me understand how much I value the principles of sport, fairness, and personal honesty.” She emphasized her immediate cooperation with local authorities, supported by the Italian Embassy, and noted the matter resolved in hours without implications for her. However, Pilato reflected on “lessons learned about prudence, individual responsibility, and the value of the people around me,” implying a reevaluation of her circle—widely interpreted as a subtle accusation toward Tarantino.
The incident reportedly involved Tarantino, 22, allegedly placing small items—believed to be bottles of essential oils or perfumes—from a duty-free store into Pilato’s bag. Surveillance footage captured the act, leading to their detention before boarding a flight to Italy. The swimmers, along with two other teammates, Anita Bottazzo and Sofia Morini (who were questioned but not charged), were held for several hours, had their passports confiscated, and were interrogated. They missed their flight and stayed in a Singapore hotel at their own expense until August 20, when they returned home after diplomatic intervention by Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani and the embassy. The swimmers issued apologies and received a warning, avoiding prosecution under Singapore’s strict anti-theft laws, which can carry severe penalties including caning or imprisonment.
Vacation Gone Wrong: From Worlds Glory to Airport Drama
The swimmers had remained in the region after the championships, where Pilato secured her bronze and Tarantino contributed to the Italian record in the 4x100m freestyle relay. The group, including Bottazzo and Morini, traveled to Bali for a brief private getaway—explicitly outside official team activities. Upon transiting through Singapore’s airport en route to Italy, the alleged theft occurred in a moment described by some media as a “prank gone wrong.” Tarantino, a member of the Fiamme Gialle (Italian Finance Police sports group), deactivated her social media accounts following the incident, while Pilato’s post has fueled speculation of a fractured friendship. Reports suggest the two, once close, have cut ties, with Tarantino facing potential expulsion from her sports group due to the embarrassment to the institution.
The Italian Swimming Federation (FIN) issued a statement on August 29, clarifying that the event happened during a “vacation period” unrelated to federal activities. “The federation stigmatizes the incident and reserves the right to carefully evaluate the matter,” it read, noting that the athletes were informed through their families and that no other officials were directly involved. FIN President Paolo Barelli, a Forza Italia parliamentarian, denied any political favoritism, insisting the resolution was handled solely by the embassy. However, Tajani’s intervention has drawn scrutiny, with critics questioning whether the swimmers received preferential treatment compared to ordinary citizens.
Backlash and Broader Implications
The story exploded across Italian media, from Gazzetta dello Sport to ANSA, evoking comparisons to past scandals in Italian sports. Pilato, an Olympic hopeful who previously clashed with fencer Elisa Di Francisca over comments on her Paris 2024 performance, has faced online harassment but also support from fans praising her transparency. Tarantino, less prominent but a rising star in freestyle, risks professional repercussions, including disciplinary action from the Fiamme Gialle. The other two swimmers, deemed uninvolved, were released after brief questioning.
Experts highlight Singapore’s zero-tolerance policy on petty crimes, even in airports, where theft can lead to fines or jail time. The diplomatic resolution underscores the perks of being high-profile athletes but has prompted debates on athlete conduct abroad. “This is a reminder that even in vacation mode, representing Italy carries weight,” said a FIN spokesperson. As Pilato refocuses on training—”now returning to my sporting path with serenity and greater determination”—the federation may impose internal sanctions, potentially affecting their eligibility for future events like the 2026 Worlds.
Social media reactions have been mixed, with X users debating the “prank” narrative versus outright irresponsibility. One viral post quipped, “From pool records to airport records—Italian swimming’s summer twist.” Supporters rally behind Pilato, viewing her as a victim of circumstance, while others call for accountability to protect the sport’s image.
The episode serves as a cautionary tale for young athletes navigating fame and freedom, but for now, both swimmers are back in Italy, with the full details likely to unfold through FIN’s review.
Sources: Gazzetta.it, ANSA, La Repubblica, Corriere della Sera, Il Messaggero, Adnkronos, Sky TG24