Milan - City authorities have prohibited the sale of alcoholic beverages in Rome's central areas and around the Stadio Olimpico to prevent violence ahead of a Champions League game between Roma and visiting Manchester United. ANSA reported Monday that the ban is to begin Wednesday morning and last until after the end of the game.
With about 4,000 English fans expected in the capital, police are trying to avoid the recurrence of clashes that recently marred Champions League games with Manchester and Real Madrid.
William Gaillard, a spokesman for the UEFA, said during a Radio RAI show that the European ruling body could reconsider its choice of Rome as the site for the 2009 Champions League final.
"We chose Rome because it has some unique, wonderful attractions," Gaillard said, "but we cannot allow that even one of the many thousands of fans who will arrive have their lives put at risk."
