When Juventus defeated Inter Milan 2-0 over the weekend it was unlike any other match you may have seen on television. Usually the sound of the fans chanting, singing and applauding is audible and adds to the entire ambiance of the match. This match was entirely different as the teams played at Juventus' Allianz Stadium in front of no one but their teammates, coaching staff and match officials. It almost sounded as silent as a New York Mets game in the early 90’s.
The Coronavirus fear is real and spreading throughout the world. Italy has so far been one of the hardest hit countries. That is the reason why this past weekend’s Serie A matches were all played behind closed doors.
Then today came another announcement. Italy Primer Minister Giuseppe Conte confirmed that all sports in Italy have been halted because of the Coronavirus outbreak. This includes Italian soccer which is heading to the final two months of the season. The earliest date that play may return is April 3rd, but that is not set in stone.
Later in the day it was announced that the entire country of Italy has been placed on lock down. People have been ordered to stay home and seek permission for travel. Conte stated:
There is no more time. Customs must change. We're having an important growth in infection and of deaths. We all must give something up for the good of Italy. We have to do it now, and we'll only be able if we all collaborate and adapt to these more stringent measures.
Obviously in the scheme of life, soccer is not as important as people’s health. This move by Italy, while extreme, makes it clear that Italy is taking this pandemic seriously. Perhaps we will see restrictions such as these taken in other countries. It’s hard to imagine, but this is real.
Let’s just hope that the world can get a handle on this virus and that life, and soccer, can return to normal soon.
What are your thoughts on stopping play during this outbreak?