Serie A Rolls Out Again June 13
JAKARTA - Serie A announced June 13 as the return date for the 2019-20 season. That is, three months after being absent due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The highest caste football competition in Italy was first suspended on March 9 as COVID-19 devastated many areas of the country. At that time, Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte banned large gatherings and sporting events.
Although the initial suspension was planned to be lifted in early April, the effects of the virus were already felt long after that date. More than 221,000 people in Italy were infected during the pandemic.
However, all Serie A clubs were granted permission to undergo individual training sessions earlier this month and group sessions are scheduled for 18 May. Yes, the normality of Italian football is gradually recovering.
And on Wednesday it was confirmed that June 13 has been set as a target to continue the 2019-20 season.
"The Lega Serie A Assembly meets today [Wednesday] with all clubs present and connected via video conference," read a statement quoted by Football Italia, Thursday, May 14.
"Lega Serie A reiterates, in relation to the 2018-2021 audio-visual rights licensees, the need to comply with the payment deadlines set by the contract in order to maintain a constructive relationship with them.
"Regarding the resumption of sporting activities, June 13 is designated as the resumption of the championship, in accordance with government decisions and in accordance with medical protocol for the protection of players and all professionals."
The announcement comes after the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) received a request to adjust their medical protocol to better align it with government protocols.
In particular, this means the entire squad will be placed in a 14-day quarantine if one player on board tests positive for COVID-19. Although in fact the club urged the authorities to follow the German model, which only quarantined those who were declared positive.
Sports Minister Vincenzo Spadafora confirmed an agreement had been made between the bodies concerned. He said everyone wanted this season to be completed but with the priority of everyone's safety.