This archive report was first published on 12 May 2020.
Italy's Serie A season has been on hold since March 9, but a breakthrough has been made in the fight to resume the season. On May 11, the Italian government announced that teams can start team training from May 18, with a focus on safety.
The government's technical-scientific committee has reviewed the protocol proposed by the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) and has given the green light for group training to restart. However, the committee has ordered some changes to the protocol, which have not been specified.
According to a joint statement from Health Minister Roberto Speranza and Sports Minister Vincenzo Spadafora, the committee's indications are 'stringent and binding' and will be sent to the FIGC for necessary adjustments. The government's changes 'confirm the line of prudence followed so far by the relevant ministries.'
Spadafora had previously expressed concerns about the protocol, stating that it was insufficient and threw doubt on whether the season would be able to restart. The FIGC has proposed a plan for team training, which includes forming a group of players, technical staff, doctors, physiotherapists, and other staff who have tested negative for the virus and isolating them in a summer-style training camp.
Each member of the group will be tested for the coronavirus in the 96 hours before the start of the training camp, and will be subject to extensive swab and antibody testing during the camp. Players who have previously tested positive and since recovered will undergo additional medical tests to find out if there are underlying health issues or side effects.
With 12 rounds of matches still to play in Serie A, plus a number of games from previous rounds, the season is far from over. Juventus, the current title holders, are one point clear of Lazio at the top of the table.
