JUVENTUS will not play in the USA during this summer’s pre-season preparations amidst rape claims made about Cristiano Ronaldo.
The Serie A champions are travelling to Asia for their 2019 tour in light of the recent allegations.
Former Real Madrid star Ronaldo, 34, was accused last September of sexually assaulting Kathryn Mayorga, 35, in Las Vegas in 2009.
And reports have since suggested the Portuguese star could be arrested if he sets foot in America over the allegations.
But Juventus have denied they are actively avoiding the US – with giants Real Madrid and Manchester confirmed for the International Champions Cup.
It had been suggested Juve were snubbing playing in America to avoid the risk of Ronaldo – who denies all rape accusations – being detained.
But the Italian giants are saying it was a carefully devised plan to spread their exposure to a new audience and nothing more.
Juventus had played in America in three of the last four seasons – having also visited Australia in 2016.
Unfortunately for Juve, most games in this summer’s International Champions Cup will take place in the USA.
Organisers have conspired to ensure Juventus, who have a long-standing agreement to take part, will play theirs in Asia.
The matches will most likely be in China and Singapore, where Juventus will be joined by Man Utd and Tottenham.
This year’s tournament, the seventh in history, will feature 12 teams spread across six countries in three continents.
Meanwhile, Ronaldo has confirmed he is a doubt for Juventus‘ Champions League quarter-final clash against Ajax after injuring himself on international duty.
