Elton John confirms support for face masks after claims he broke rules in Italy

Elton John has voiced his support for face masks after allegations emerged that he broke the rules in Italy.

Italy’s leading consumers’ association, Codacons, filed a complaint to authorities saying John should be fined after photos appeared of him not wearing a mask outside a hotel in Capri. In the Campania region, it is obligatory for face coverings to be worn outside to prevent a rise in coronavirus infections.

“The law foresees fines of up to €1,000, and applies for everyone, even VIPs,” Carlo Rienzi, the president of Codacons, said.

John’s spokesperson has since told The Guardian: “Elton is respectful of local rules and fully supportive of wearing a mask in public to protect himself and others. When pictured, he was at an outdoors restaurant, on his way to his table to sit down and eat with his family. He can clearly be seen putting a mask on immediately after.”

Codacons filed its complaint after two images emerged of the singer not wearing a mask at the five-star Grand Hotel Quisisana. In one, he was posing for a photo with a member of staff, in the other he was walking towards a table on the terrace.

“He put his arm around someone and greeted people without wearing a mask,” said Stefano Zerbi, a spokesperson for Codacons. “He was out in the open in a public space – the law must be respected by everyone, including celebrities from abroad.”

The mayor of Capri, Marino Lembo, told The Guardian he would investigate the claims even though he felt they were “a bit exaggerated”.

Last month, John announced that his “Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour” will return to America in January 2022 in New Orleans.  

“I’ve been enjoying my time at home with the family while the world navigates its way through the Covid pandemic. But I really miss being on the road and performing for my beloved fans in my Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour,” John said.