Italy considering cancelling Serie A due to coronavirus outbreak

The Italian Federation has made its warnings. "I would not rule out the suspension of the championship...", said President Gabriele Gravina recently.

But the matter is quite serious and the government now recognizes that it is an option that is currently on the table. "We are evaluating the option of immediately stopping Serie A," said Sports Minister Vincenzo Spadafora.

"It makes no sense for us to ask for a huge sacrifice from citizens to prevent the spread of the contagion and to put the health of players, referees, coaches or fans at risk," he continued.

The coronavirus continues to spread. Events with large numbers of people are dangerous and, in that sense, Italy is already considering stopping football in order to avoid any extra risks.

Many matches have been suspended to date in Italy. It remains to be seen whether the government will finally decide to stop football until the situation is under control.

For the moment, Parma-SPAL has already suffered the first consequences. The match, which should have started at 12.30 p.m., was delayed. 

The players were already in the dressing room tunnel, ready to go out, but they didn't make it. They are patiently waiting for the government and the Federation to make a statement on whether or not to suspend Serie A.

Meanwhile, the stadium awaits Parma and SPAL... Although they may not make the jump to the pitch. 

UPDATE: The clash is postponed until 13:45 for now. 

March 8, 2020