PSG’s league opener moved due to pitch damage from heatwave
Paris Saint-Germain have had to relocate their opening league match due to the “exceptional heatwave” this summer, which has left their pitch “severely damaged”, reports BritPanorama.
The French and European champions were initially set to face Rennes at the Parc des Princes, but the fixture will now take place at Roazhon Park in Brittany on Sunday, August 23, at 8:45 PM.
In their statement, PSG revealed that the extreme weather conditions had significantly accelerated the deterioration of their pitch. “The latest heatwave, following the successive and exceptional heatwaves that hit the Paris region this summer, has greatly accelerated the deterioration of the pitch at the Parc des Princes,” they indicated.
The decision was made following an assessment in conjunction with the Professional Football League, which concluded that the conditions were unsuitable for safely hosting the match. “This assessment concluded that the current conditions did not allow the match to be held under satisfactory circumstances,” the statement noted. Player safety was emphasized as a priority.
PSG expressed understanding of the inconvenience this change may cause for supporters, and they will communicate ticket information to those affected. The club acknowledged Rennes for accommodating the fixture change.
Meanwhile, PSG’s recent season has been notable; they celebrated back-to-back Champions League titles, defeating Arsenal in a penalty shootout in the final. The team’s form continues to build as they prepare for an exciting league campaign ahead.
As they head to Brittany, it’s a reminder that football often dances with the elements, where even the most glamorous clubs must adapt to unpredictable circumstances.
