Italian Minister Of Sport: “The Serie A’s Decision To Postpone Juventus Vs Inter Was Made On Their Own”

Minister for Sport and Youth Policies Vincenzo Spadafora discussed the decision to postpone five Serie A games this weekend in an interview in today’s paper edition of the Milano based newspaper Corriere della Sera.

First, Spadafora discussed why the decision was made to postpone the games, rather than play them behind closed doors.

“The government has given the League two options, postpone or play behind closed doors. The League has decided to postpone, also to avoid the spectacle of empty stadiums. An autonomous decision. Of course, it sets a precedent, and I understand who says it should be valid, fortunately it’s for three regions and no longer six, even for the next game day.”

The Minister for Sports explained why the decision to postpone the games, including Juventus’ league clash against Inter, hasn’t distorted the league.

“In a moment with more than a thousand infected and almost thirty dead it’s not my first thought. I understand the fans’ grievances, but that can’t be the point of view from which to judge difficult decisions. Now it’s up to the League to do everything, even dismantle and reassemble the game days if necessary, to balance the calendar in the coming weeks. I don’t want even a shadow of suspicion about the regularity of the league to remain.”

Spadafora revealed that Juventus didn’t push for the postponement specifically.

“My only contacts were with the leaders of CONI, FIGC and football leagues, representatives of referees and players.”

The Minister for Sports then spoke about why Juventus’ Coppa Italia semi-final against AC Milan may be played with a crowd.

“It depends on data and indications from the scientific community. If everything goes as planned, hopefully the schools will reopen on Wednesday in Piedmont. The rest comes as a result.”

Finally, Spadafora discussed whether any games from next game day would be postponed.

“This is the League’s choice, as it’s making room on a tight schedule. I hope it will serve as a lesson for the coming seasons. I will ask that every effort be made to ensure equal treatment for all clubs.”

Inter are furious that their Derby d’Italia clash against Juventus has been postponed to 13^th May, as the Milanese side now haven’t played for two game days. Due to this, they are now eight points behind first place Lazio, who haven’t had any games postponed so far.