Italy's footballers take action
Monday, December 2, 2002
Article summary
Italian matches will kick off late this weekend in protest at the attack on an SSC Napoli player by his club's fans.
Article body
Player protest
In a move organised by the Italian players' union, the Associazione Italiana Calciatori (AIC), all Serie A, B, C1 and C2 teams have agreed to the delay, during which captains will read out statements against violence. Baldini suffered an eye injury after being attacked while driving home following his side's goalless draw with Palermo Calcio on Friday.
Climate of confrontation
"This latest, extremely serious assault on a player is typical of the climate of confrontation and violence," said an AIC statement. "The AIC has now decided to carry out a protest to underline the necessity of action by public and sporting institutions."
Five motorcyclists
Police believe the five motorcyclists who broke a window in Baldini's car, causing glass to fly into the player's eye, were Napoli fans. Napoli are currently third bottom of Serie B.