The entire football landscape has changed due to the Coronavirus pandemic, and all leagues around the world have faced major decisions to prevent the further spread of the disease.
As you may already know, the World Health Organization has classified the coronavirus as a pandemic since Monday, and proper measures must be implemented to keep the infection toll from rising. So, with that in mind, the Italian Serie A has decided to postpone all games for the next two weeks in order to avoid massive gatherings of people, as per the WHO's recommendations.
Italy is one of the countries where the virus has hit the hardest, especially after the recommended measures to prevent the spread of the disease were not followed. At first, games featuring teams from the northern side of the country were suspended, while others were played behind closed doors. The last matches were held on Monday, when the Italian Olympic Committee (CONI) decided to suspend all sports events.
The league was forced to follow this decision since it depends on what CONI execs decide.
"We can't allow football games to continue, I'm sorry to say that, but fans must take notice," Giuseppe Conte, Italy's Prime Minister stated.
#SerieATIM is officially suspended. We're taking a break, but we can't wait to be back.#WeAreCalcio pic.twitter.com/xhQY33g6gV
— Lega Serie A (@SerieA_EN) March 11, 2020
FAQ - How is the Italian league dealing with the Coronavirus pandemic
When will the Serie A return to action?
The Italian top-flight will reportedly return to action right after the international break, which was set to take place between March 23 and March 31. Nevertheless, that date is subject to change if the virus is not contained.
UPDATE: Serie A clubs have been given permission to return to training on May 04 but only on an individual level. Group trainings will be permitted on May 18 but strict safety measures will have to be followed. It remains unknown when play will resume in the Italian top-flight, however.
13 MAY 2020 UPDATE: The Serie A has proposed a June 13 return date after getting into contact with all 20 clubs. The proposal, however, is subject to the Italian government's approval.
Are there any players or coaches who have tested positive for coronavirus among Serie A teams?
Yes, Daniele Rugani (Juventus) and Manolo Gabbiadini (Sampdoria) have tested positive for coronavirus.
Will any games be played behind closed doors?
No. Although the initial decision was to hold games behind closed doors, the Italian Serie A has effectively suspended all games until further notice.
Who will win the league if the 2019-20 season is canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic?
Serie A execs are considering three scenarios to decide who will win the title if play cannot resume. The first option would see the title being declared vacant, which would also mean that there would be no relegation. The second scenario would be to leave things as they are, which means Juventus would claim the title. The third option would force the Italian top-flight to decide the champion and relegated teams via a playoff stage, but this option will only be considered if things improve in the country.
What are some of the top games not being played in the Serie A after this decision was made?
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Bologna vs Juventus
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Atalanta vs Lazio
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Inter vs Brescia
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Milan vs Roma
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Lazio vs Fiorentina
Follow LiveSoccer TV for further updates on how all leagues in the world will deal with the coronavirus pandemic, and when they will return to action if that ends up happening.
