It seems rather churlish talking about football considering what is happening around the world due to the COVID-19 pandemic. People are getting sick and dying due to the horrible virus. However, football is something that has the power to bring smiles to faces. That is why it is called the beautiful game. With most of the major European leagues suspended, there is the inevitable question of when they will return. One that is unlikely to continue in the near future is La Liga.
La Liga suspended indefinitely
With 2,000 people dead already from the virus in Spain, La Liga and the Spanish football federation (RFEF) have suspended the professional game in the country indefinitely.
A joint statement from the two read: “The Monitoring Commission established by the current RFEF-LaLiga Coordination Agreement agrees the suspension of professional football competitions until the authorities of the Government of Spain and the General Administration of the State consider that they can be resumed without creating any health risk.
“Both the RFEF and LaLiga wish to express our greatest public gratitude to all those who are dedicating their best efforts to provide essential services to the Spanish people and also share our condolences for all the deceased and a warm embrace from the world of football to the many families that are losing loved ones.”
Spain in the midst of lockdown
Football seems to be the last thing on the minds of the usually football-mad Spaniards at the moment. In fact, the country is one of the worst affected in the world and was forced into lockdown last Saturday. Such a measure certainly is not taken easily and the country seems to be a long way from the one that is usually divided by football colours.
There seems to be greater unity and spirit amongst the Spanish than there would be in certain other countries in similar circumstances. With the UK likely heading to similar measures, if behaviours do not change, it would be interesting to see how people from my homeland cope. If the last few days of reckless behaviour says anything not very well.
Barcelona are champions and leaders
Anyway, back to football, when La Liga suspended Barcelona were top of the table. In what seems like a meaningless betting market, the reigning champions are also favourites to retain their title at odds of 4/7.
As with the other leagues around Europe, indeed the world, it is unknown if the league will conclude or not. The above statement said it all about the situation. La Liga will not continue until the Spanish government permits for it to do so.
However, currently, their priority is to avoid the spread of the deadly virus and treat those infected. Once the spread slows slightly, maybe then we will have a better idea of when football will return.
Unfortunately, it is hard to predict how soon the situation will improve. The Spanish authorities will be hoping and praying that lockdown will help the situation. Until then, quite rightly so, there will be no professional football in Spain. No doubt, it will be a similar case in England and Italy.
Will the current La Liga campaign be concluded?
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