Stadiums without spectators could be the future for much of Italian football after Friday's riots. Italy's Interior Minister Giuliano Amato has decided that stadiums that do not meet safety standards will have to hold matches behind closed doors without the public present. The football federation, which has suspended matches indefinitely, will decide whether to allow play to resume after the government considers the new measures on Wednesday.

Amato said: "When the stadiums reopen, only those that are within the law can welcome the public. The others can be used for games but without spectators. They can welcome the public when they are within the law."

The Interior Minister also said police will be able to arrest offenders without a warrant for football violence up to 48 hours after alleged crimes. Minors can also be banned from stadiums and block sales of tickets to away-fans will end.