Italy cancels remainder of domestic season

The Italian Rugby Federation (FIR) has announced cancellation of the 2019/20 season following the pandemic coronavirus.

Italy has been the hardest hit country following the outbreak of COVID-19 with the death toll climbing past 10,000 - the most for any.

As a result, the Italian board have now decided to cancel the rest of the season which was initially on suspension until 3rd April.

“The governing body of Italian rugby has approved the definitive suspension of the 2019/2020 season,” FIR said in a statement.

“The decision implies the non-assignment of the Italian champion titles and of all the promotion and relegation processes.

“The resumption of domestic activity for the 2020/21 season will subsequently be regulated by the Council.”

Earlier, the England, Wales, Ireland, Scotland and New Zealand boards have also cancelled their respective domestic competitions while few clubs have asked players and staff to take cut in wages due to the financial instability.