Rome confirms Stadio Olimpico will hold fans for Euro 2020
By Max Cooper
Rome's Stadio Olimpico will keep its fixtures for Euro 2020 this summer, after authorities guaranteed that they will be able to fill at least 25% of the stadium's capacity with spectators.
Some nations are at risk of losing the right to host matches for the European Championship should they be unwilling or incapable of guaranteeing the opportunity for supporters to watch games live in person.
But authorities in Rome have given the green light for spectators to return to Stadio Olimpico in the summer, ensuring that they will be able to safely welcome at least 25% of the stadium's 72,000 capacity for Euro 2020.
UEFA confirmed this news, stating that they consider Rome to be 'fully confirmed' as a venue for the tournament.
"UEFA has today received from the Italian Football Association, confirmation from the Italian government that the UEFA EURO 2020 matches scheduled for the Stadio Olimpico in Rome, will take place with spectators," a statement read.
"The authorities have guaranteed at least 25% of the stadium’s capacity will be filled. As a result, UEFA considers Rome to be fully confirmed as a venue for the tournament.
"Fans with tickets for matches in Rome should note that there will be no exemptions granted to any travel restrictions that will be in place at the time, for people arriving from outside Italy."
Fans in Italy have been banned from attending matches for nearly the entire season, and the country has registered 115,000 deaths linked to the coronavirus since February 2020. Rome is set to host three group games, including Italy's clash with Turkey, as well as one quarter-final tie.
And Italian football federation president Gabriele Gravina has welcomed the agreement, describing it as 'wonderful news', as per Sky Italia.
“Italy and Rome are on board. The government approval of the public’s presence at Rome’s Euro 2020 matches is wonderful news that we will immediately pass on to UEFA.
"The message that the government sends to the country is one of great confidence and extraordinary vision.”