In an exclusive update on the ongoing European Super League situation and the Roma Derby, Italy’s Minister for Sport, Andrea Abodi, has shared his perspective on the matters.
Speaking on the sidelines of a sporting event, Abodi offered an insight into the current status of the highly controversial Super League initiative. Coordinating with fellow European colleagues, Abodi hinted at an interpretation of the initiative that doesn’t focus on the judgement, but observes the resultant effects on sports organisation.
“We are coordinating with all our European colleagues to establish a position that does not evaluate the judgement, which becomes a key interpretation and political effects of the judgement on the organisation,” Abodi said. He continued, “As you know, technical structures were present yesterday, not ministers. We will be releasing a brief joint update note in the afternoon”.
The Minister for Sport then turned his attention to the long-standing Roma Derby. Despite certain improvements, Abodi voiced his disappointment at the continued confrontations amongst fans. He emphasized the need for immediacy in interventions and continuity in the process of cultural education – expressing astonishment that sporting events were still being used as venues for violence and antagonism.
“It’s always the same mindset, despite our assumptions of responsibility, things like this still happen. These are not fans,” Abodi stressed. “Sport should be a meeting of passion that manifests in a civil manner. We owe it to the boys and girls and those who, I hope, still want to enter a stadium. Anyone who does not interpret the spirit of the sport is not a fan, and if they do not respect the laws of the state, they are persecuted as they should be.”
He closed his remarks emphasising that sports organisations should also begin to consider revoking stadium attendance privileges from non-compliant individuals.
Abodi’s comments further highlight the ongoing issues with the Super League proposition and the challenges faced by sports administrators, particularly regarding fan culture. His views serve as an important reminder about the constant need for improvement in the world of football.