Features

SPAL given green light to play at Stadio Paolo Mazza

The security status of Stadio Paolo Mazza, home of Italian Serie A football club SPAL, has been deemed acceptable, paving the way for the team to play at the venue as planned this season.

SPAL’s immediate future at the stadium had been unclear after three stands were closed at the venue last month amid security concerns. The club was forced to suspend sales of season tickets after the north and east stands were closed off, before the north stand was closed the following week.

Doubts were raised over whether renovation work carried out at Stadio Paolo Mazza last year to expand its capacity to 16,000 had met safety regulations.

Fears were first aired by one of the club’s subcontractors, who stated in a letter to the club, as well as the local authority and the Italian Olympic Committee (CONI), that “severe” issues relating to the construction process would “expose spectators to real and existing dangers”.

Eight people were investigated in relation to the allegations, with a total of 60 having been questioned.

The investigation has now found the stadium’s security status to be acceptable, with directions having been issued to make small adjustments at the ground. The local council in Ferrara will now need to give the stadium the go-ahead to stage matches during the 2019-20 season.

SPAL finished 13th in Serie A last season.

Image: Lungoleno