Giovanni Malago, the president of the Italian Olympic Committee (CONI), has shared his surprise that UEFA have not already postponed European competitions amid the ongoing Coronavirus crisis.
Whilst leagues across the continent have decided to put things on hold for the time being, including Serie A, European football’s governing body have appeared reluctant to put the Champions League and Europa League on hold.
They did agree to postpone games between Inter and Getafe as well as Sevilla and Roma off the back of travel restrictions being imposed by the Spanish government. They also ordered that some games take place behind closed doors but did allow some to proceed as planned with fans despite the concern relating to the spread of the virus.
Italy were among the first to suspend sporting activity, with them doing so until at least April 3, and Malago has admitted there was nothing else that could have been done other than putting a stop to things.
“There was common sense and responsibility from the beginning and that showed us the way to go. Other options other than stopping could not have happened,” he told Gianlucadimarzio.com.
“People have said that games should still be played but what if a player has a problem? During this delicate moment, sport has an obligation and duty to stop.
“Many others have followed us whilst others have adopted different strategies. Obviously, we cannot impose rules on supranational bodies and the situation is so serious – and not just in Italy – that, as far as we are concerned, we could not help but stop things.”
He then went on to speak about UEFA and their apparent reluctance to stop Champions League and Europa League.
“It is not a decision that falls within my competence. I can say however that I am amazed that it has not yet been decided to stop the various cups. I understand there are social and economic interests but health must come first.”
