Share

Italian FA to request postponement of Euro 2020

The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) are to request that Euro 2020 be postponed amid the escalating coronavirus pandemic, FIGC president Gabriele Gravina said on Monday.

European football's governing body and tournament organisers UEFA will hold a video-conference on Tuesday to discuss domestic and competitions across the continent, as well as Euro 2020, which is due to take place from 12 June to 12 July.

Italy are set to host the opening match in Rome on 12 June, in a tournament which will be played in 12 countries across Europe.

"We will ask for an act of responsibility from UEFA and all the continental federations," Gravina told Italian radio.

"First of all for a path that aims to protect the health of athletes and fans from all over the world, even if the epicentre of the pandemic is now in Europe.

"I hope that tomorrow common sense proposals will come out. Postponement is the way forward right now."

All sport in Italy has been suspended until 3 April with the country in lockdown to avoid the spread of the virus which has killed 1,809 people and infected more than 24,000.

The FIGC confirmed its federal council, scheduled for 23 March, had been postponed.

"We are sailing in unchartered waters in a climate of absolute fog," added Gravina.

"Taking into account the advanced level of club competitions we must first facilitate the conclusion of the championships and cups.

"And we must not overlook the idea of completing international competitions, Champions and Europa League."

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
loading... Live
Ulster 28
Benetton 20
loading... Live
Scarlets 20
Sharks 27
Voting Booth
Should the Proteas pick Faf du Plessis for the T20 World Cup in West Indies and the United States in June?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Faf still has a lot to give ...
67% - 941 votes
No! It's time to move on ...
33% - 458 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE