After some back-and-forth, Rome has officially been confirmed as one of the venues for the 2021 European Championship. UEFA announced earlier today to have received from the Italian Football Association the guarantee that matches at the Stadio Olimpico will take place with spectators. At least 25 percent of the capacity will be allowed.
The Italian cabinet had okayed opening the arena to fans for the first time in over a year last week. However, UEFA had put Rome on hold because the national health officials were reluctant to set a percentage so early. Prime minister Mario Draghi and sport undersecretary Valentina Vezzali took matters into their own hands and made the call. Repubblica reports that the fact that Turkey offered to replace Rome with Istanbul accelerated the process.
The Stadio Olimpico will host the opening match between Italy and Turkey, two more Group A matches and one of the quarter-finals on July 3rd. The decision could have significant ramifications as Serie A clubs have already asked to open the stadiums for the final rounds. Officials in other sports and concert organizers are also pressing the government, as mass gatherings are currently prohibited at least until May in Italy.
As for the other three candidates in doubt, Dublin is considered likely to bow out, Munich should be able to hold onto its spot, while Sevilla might replace Bilbao, Repubblica informs. UEFA is also expected to widen the rosters to 25 players, Corriere dello Sport reports, as suggested by Roberto Mancini and other national team coaches.