TAR rejects request to halt new Roma stadium construction

The Italian administrative court (TAR) has rejected a request to suspend all work on Roma's new stadium project at Pietralata, though a ban on tree-felling remains in place. The court president ruled that no conclusive evidence emerged demonstrating a violation of previous protective measures. Current site activities—including undergrowth clearance, ground preparation, and soil movement—were not found to breach the temporary vegetation-protection order. The judge determined there were no grounds to justify further urgent intervention under relevant administrative procedure law. The tree-felling prohibition stays in effect until a full hearing scheduled for 13 May 2026, when the TAR will convene to decide on the broader question of work suspension. The ruling represents a partial victory for Roma's stadium plans, allowing preliminary operations to continue while environmental protections remain under legal review. The project has faced ongoing environmental and administrative challenges, with this decision permitting construction to advance on non-destructive preparatory tasks. Construction can proceed with foundational work until the May hearing, when the court will examine whether all stadium activities should be halted pending full resolution of the environmental and legal concerns raised by opponents.

Former Roma striker Ciccio Graziani has dismissed speculation about Fabio Paratici joining Roma as sporting director, calling it a significant blow to the club's image. Speaking on Radio Bruno's Pentasport programme, Graziani stated: "Can I think of something so stupid? From an image perspective it would be an enormous loss of credibility." He also highlighted contractual obstacles, noting that Paratici remains under contract with his current employer for five years. Rumours about Paratici's possible arrival have circulated in recent days as Roma evaluates candidates to potentially replace current sporting director Massara. The speculation reflects ongoing changes in the club's administrative structure. However, Graziani's strong rejection underscores reservations about the move within football circles. According to reports, Roma is considering several profiles for the position. Tony D'Amico tops the list of candidates, while Giovanni Manna and Cristiano Giuntoli remain less prominent options. The club continues its search at Trigoria as it plans for potential changes in its sporting leadership.

Italian tennis player Flavio Cobolli, ranked 13th on the ATP tour and a devoted AS Roma supporter, signed a Roma scarf for a fan during the Mutua Madrid Open on 28 April. After securing victory against Daniil Medvedev to advance to the quarter-finals, Cobolli received the scarf from a spectator in the stands and immediately signed it before returning it. The gesture highlighted Roma's reach beyond football, with Cobolli's display of his giallorossi allegiance extending the club's presence into professional tennis. Cobolli has become known for moments celebrating his Roma fandom on the international stage. Earlier at Monaco, he had generated viral social media attention with a photo featuring fellow athlete Mats Hummels with Roma undertones. These public displays demonstrate how the club's colours and values resonate with supporters across different sports and continents.