Civil unrest forces Peru to restart Liga1 behind closed doors

February 3 – Peru’s top-flight division kicks off this weekend behind closed doors following a two-week suspension because of the civil unrest that has reportedly cost more than 50 lives.

Peru has witnessed a wave of political protests across the country calling for the resignation of President Dina Boluarte and demanding fresh elections following the ousting of her predecessor Pedro Castillo.

The clashes between protesters and police represent the country’s worst political violence in more than two decades.

In mid-January, the start of top-flight domestic football was delayed “to prevent and avoid risks that affect the safety and physical integrity of people.”

With the first two rounds of matches called off, the league will now begin with matchday three “which will be played without spectators on the recommendation of the authorities” said the Peruvian FA (LFP)

In a separate dispute, the top flight is embroiled in a controversy over broadcast rights.

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