A corner flag bearing the Inter logo pictured during the Serie A match. Press Association

Inter Milan cancel preseason USA tour after Arsenal encounter COVID-19 issues

On Tuesday, Premier League club Arsenal confirmed the cancellation of their preseason United States tour because of "a small number" of positive COVID-19 cases within their traveling party. 

Reigning Serie A champions Inter Milan were originally scheduled to face Arsenal in Orlando this coming Sunday as part of the Florida Cup competition but announced Wednesday they also won't be making the trip. 

"FC Internazionale Milano announce that they will not be traveling to the USA for the Florida Cup due to the current risks involved in international travel as a result of the spread of the pandemic, risks that have already caused Arsenal F.C. to withdraw from participation," Inter said in the prepared statement. 

The winners of Arsenal-Inter were set to play the victors of a contest between Everton and Millonarios. Everton confirmed earlier on Wednesday they're still heading to Florida. 

Per Andrew Cesare Richardson of ESPN, Florida Cup organizers explained in a Tuesday statement: 

"We will be in communication with fans who purchased tickets to see Arsenal in Orlando regarding their options." 

Organizers were also able to somewhat joke about the matter.

Inter begin the defense of their league title versus Genoa on Aug. 21.

More must-reads:

TODAY'S BEST
NFL writer shares wild Bo Nix, J.J. McCarthy draft prediction
Purdue star Zach Edey officially enters 2024 NBA Draft
Canucks goalie to miss Game 2, potentially out for series
French World Cup winner reportedly heading to MLS
Rory McIlroy's return to PGA board could signal progress with LIV
Michael Jordan taking notice of young NBA star
Orioles to promote yet another top prospect
NFL insider shares bold take about potential Tom Brady comeback
Yankees' Juan Soto discusses struggles of Aaron Judge
Sixers to file grievance over officiating following Game 2 loss to Knicks
Pair of NBA stars fume over officiating after playoff losses
A 20-year LeBron James NBA Playoffs streak is over
Heat's postseason chances suffer huge blow with latest Jimmy Butler news
Watch: Jamal Murray rips out the Lakers' hearts with buzzer-beater
Watch: Unbelievable sequence helps Knicks steal Game 2
Watch: Auston Matthews goal leads to Maple Leafs tying series against Bruins
Mark Stone's return sparks Golden Knights to 4-3 win over Stars
Watch: Hurricanes score twice in nine seconds for comeback win
Sean Payton tries another Wilson at QB as Jets trade Zach to Broncos
Nets officially hire Jordi Fernandez as head coach