Bundesliga gets green signal, to return in mid-May

Germany : German chancellor Angela Merkel on Wednesday announced that Bundesliga football may return in the second half of May.

Speaking at a press conference, Angela Merkel claimed that the German top tier could resume play as long as teams adhere to strict rules.

"Matches are allowed to be played under the approved rules," she said.

Bundesliga can move on with their playing schedules, with the Sport Information Service (SID) confirming that May 15 will be the league's start date.

Following the conclusion of Wednesday's meeting the German government released the following statement: "The Federal Chancellor and the heads of government of the federal states consider the continuation of play in the 1st and 2nd Bundesliga to be justifiable for the 36 clubs eligible to start there at their expense from the second half of May.

"DFL determines the specific match dates."

This comes after Germany is gradually easing out lockdown norms and is allowing open air games only under a condition of playing them without contact. It has been recommended that people keep a minimum distance of 1.5 metres apart.