Genoa to drop two divisions
Wednesday, July 27, 2005
Article summary
Genoa 1893 are to appeal a decision to expel them from Serie A after an investigation into alleged match-fixing.
Article body
Final-day victory
The club secured their return to Italy's top flight after a ten-year absence with a 3-2 victory against AC Venezia on the last day of the 2004/05 season. However, an inquiry into the conduct of officials from both clubs was subsequently launched by the Lega Calcio's disciplinary committee.
Police involved
The investigation centred on police-acquired recordings of telephone conversations between players and officials. The committee today announced that Genoa were guilty, meaning they will be relegated to the bottom of last season's Serie B table and therefore start the next campaign in Serie C1. They will also begin with a three-point deduction.
President's resignation
Genoa president Enrico Preziosi, who was handed a five-year ban, announced his decision to resign immediately after the verdict, along with general manager Stefano Capozucca. Genoa lawyer Alfredo Biondi said: "We will certainly appeal this decision." The appeal will be heard on 5/6 August by the Federal Court of Appeal.
