Official: Roma vs Lazio to Be Played on Sunday as Parties Reach Agreement | OneFootball

The Serie A scheduling conflict has come to an end, as the parties have finally found common ground for Matchday 37. Therefore, the showdown between Roma and Lazio will take place on Sunday’s early kickoff.

Roma vs Lazio Time Slot Caused a Major Stir

The Lega Serie A has been pushing for this solution from the outset. However, the Prefect of Rome initially refused to schedule the Derby della Capitale on the same day as the final of the Italian Open, a global tennis tournament taking place at the same sports complex as the Stadio Olimpico, citing safety measures and logistical difficulties, suggesting that the match be moved to Monday.

However, this solution didn’t sit well with the Lega Serie A, who insisted on playing this match at the weekend to maximize viewership, especially since four other fixtures must be played simultaneously to avoid any unfair advantages in the race for the European spots.

The Parties Finally Reach a Solution

The Lega Serie A thus decided to appeal the Prefect’s decision at the Regional Administrative Court (TAR). However, the court avoided making a ruling, instead inviting the parties to an open discussion in the hopes of finding a solution. This move paid dividends, as the Lega announced on Thursday evening that a decision has been on the matter, with the authorities’ blessing.

The Roma Derby Will Be Played on Sunday’s Early Kickoff

As reported by La Lazio Siamo Noi, the Roma Derby will played on Sunday at 12:00 CET. The parties have agreed to further advance the kickoff to avoid overlapping with the tennis match that will take place in the afternoon.

The other four fixtures that will be played simultaneously are Pisa-Napoli, Juventus-Fiorentina, Genoa-Milan, and Como-Parma.

Maurizio Sarri Will Be Livid with Schedule

Interestingly, Lazio head coach Maurizio Sarri had threatened to boycott the Derby if the organizers insist on this early time slot, which he considers both illogical and disrespectful considering Rome’s relative high temperatures in mid-May. Hence, it remains to be seen how the 67-year-old will react to this latest development.