The scheduling of the Derby della Capitale between Roma and Lazio is still causing major headaches, and it looks like the match might finally be moved from its controversial Sunday lunchtime slot. Originally set for 11:30 AM BST (12:30 PM CET) on May 17, 2026, this fixture is the penultimate round of the Serie A season—and it's already stirring up plenty of drama off the pitch.
Lazio boss Maurizio Sarri didn't hold back, calling the timing "an insult to the city of Rome" and even suggesting that whoever proposed the kick-off time should resign. "Ask the Lega Serie A why they didn't make Inter and Milan play at that time," he added, pointing out the obvious double standard. But there's more to this story than just a frustrated manager.
The real issue? May 17 is also the date of the men's singles final at the Italian Open, hosted at Foro Italico—the same complex that houses the Stadio Olimpico. With home favorite Jannik Sinner potentially playing, security and logistics become a nightmare. The main entrance to the Curva Sud side of the stadium will be blocked off for football fans to allow access to the tennis venue, creating safety concerns and stretching police resources thin.
This isn't the first time we've seen this clash. Last season, the Italian Open final coincided with Lazio vs. Juventus, and the tension was palpable. Now, with the heated Roma-Lazio rivalry and a history of fan clashes, the stakes are even higher. Playing the game later in the evening has already been ruled out due to previous supporter trouble around the Derby della Capitale. So, with the lunchtime slot looking increasingly unworkable, could we see up to five Serie A matches rescheduled to accommodate the chaos? Stay tuned—this derby drama is far from over.
