CONI President Giovanni Malagò is “stunned” UEFA haven’t stopped the Champions League, Europa League or Euro 2020 yet amid the Coronavirus pandemic.
Numerous sporting tournaments all over the world have been suspended after the pandemic started to spread around the globe.
“Common sense and responsibility showed us the way from the start. We could do nothing but stop,” Malagò told GianlucaDiMarzio.com.
Meanwhile, some Europa League games are playing this evening, including matches with crowds present.
CONI President Giovanni Malagò is “stunned” UEFA haven’t stopped the Champions League, Europa League or Euro 2020 yet amid the Coronavirus pandemic.
Numerous sporting tournaments all over the world have been suspended after the pandemic started to spread around the globe.
“Common sense and responsibility showed us the way from the start. We could do nothing but stop,” Malagò told GianlucaDiMarzio.com.
Meanwhile, some Europa League games are playing this evening, including matches with crowds present.
“The problem is not playing behind closed doors, but looking after the health of the athletes. They tell us we should avoid contact with other people and then we should play a team sport? We didn’t need to wait until one of the players tested positive to stop.”
Juventus defender Daniele Rugani and Sampdoria forward Manolo Gabbiadini have now tested positive for Coronavirus.
UEFA will hold a summit on Tuesday to decide what to do next and it seems inevitable Euro 2020 will be delayed until next year.
“We cannot, obviously, impose our rules on to the international football authorities, but the situation not just in Italy is so serious that we believe everything has to come to a halt right now. There is no other choice.
“I cannot decide for UEFA, but I was stunned that they still haven’t decided to stop the cup competitions. I realise there are many interests involved, both economic and social, but health comes first and must be put first and foremost.”