Following in the footsteps of the Premier League, the AIA (Italian Referees’ Association) has decided to make use of the vanishing spray as well in the Serie A, Serie B and Lega Pro in Italy.
The spray drew wide praise for all and sundry after its successful application in the recently concluded 2014 FIFA World Cup.
The spray, which lasts for only 60 seconds, was used in the event to ensure that the defensive walls did not encroach more than 10 yards (9.15 metres) from the spot of a free-kick.
In a meeting held at Sportilia, the association also decided to enforce some new additions to the offside rule. For the upcoming season of football in Italy, they have decided to punish any opponent blocking the view of the goalkeeper, even if the player is not contributing to the move.
But, the most important decision of the day came in regards to their stand on Carlo Tavecchio, who has been embroiled in recent days for his alleged racist remarks.
Speaking to the media, the AIA chief Marcello Nicchi hinted that the referees would not be supporting Tavecchio and will, in fact, try to stomp down on racism in the Italian game.
“If on the pitch a referee hears a player using a racist term, that player is quite simply sent off. On the field you cannot and must not accept that,” Nicchi added.
“You can see the difference between the AIA and the other institutions, as we have always avoided controversy. We accept the rules because then we have to impose them on others.”
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