Minister for Sport Vincenzo Spadafora warns Serie A cannot follow the Bundesliga model of only isolating COVID-19 positive players. ‘Consider Dynamo Dresden.’
It was today announced by the Lega Serie A that the changes to the medical protocol had been accepted, allowing group training to resume from Monday May 18 and the 2019-20 fixture list to pick up again from the weekend of June 13.
Minister for Sport Vincenzo Spadafora warns Serie A cannot follow the Bundesliga model of only isolating COVID-19 positive players. ‘Consider Dynamo Dresden.’
It was today announced by the Lega Serie A that the changes to the medical protocol had been accepted, allowing group training to resume from Monday May 18 and the 2019-20 fixture list to pick up again from the weekend of June 13.
Spadafora then spoke inside the Senate and the House to give the Government’s side of the situation amid the coronavirus pandemic.
“From the first day, we dedicated our actions to the requirements of resuming gradually and safely. I understand that although my purview is for all of sport, there is particular focus on football.
“I am aware of the social importance represented by football, but also that it is one of the most important industries in our country.
“I received a letter from the FIGC President Gabriele Gravina confirming that they have accepted all the modifications to the medical protocol, namely quarantine for the team in case of a new positive case, responsibility of the club medics and ensuring the swabs are not taken away from local citizens.
“Therefore, training will resume from May 18.”
Most Serie A figures had asked Italy to follow the Bundesliga model, which would’ve only isolated the person who tested positive for COVID-19 rather than the entire group.
“With regards to Germany, I invite everyone to consider the case of Dynamo Dresden, who ended up in quarantine for 15 days,” continued Spadafora.
He was referring to a 2. Bundesliga (German Serie B) team who resumed group training only for two players to test positive for COVID-19.
The local health authorities ruled the entire squad had to go into quarantine.
“We cannot underestimate the problem. Only a couple of weeks ago, several players ended up in quarantine. We want to reopen the league and allow it to conclude, but to do it all in absolute safety.
“I know full well the need to terminate the tournament comes from sporting and economic demands, above all TV rights, but I also have to give answers to other sports.”