World Rugby has announced guidelines for the safe return to rugby activities in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Formulated by medical directors following the conference with union chief medical officers, competition owners and players, the following guidelines are planned to help unions, clubs and competition to frame policies for return to rugby competition.
Union and competition owners will also look after and respect the rules and regulations formed by the government in relation to COVID-19 including social distancing and travel measures.
“For the avoidance of doubt, this does not mean that matches will have to be played behind closed doors until a vaccine is available, the strategy will be determined by the respective national government directives, ” the World Rugby said in a statement.
The guidelines have two body sections, including one vital information.
In the first section it gives safety information to everyone implicated in the game including players, coaches, support and administrative staff while the second section provides a stand around which national unions can practice policies for return to the sport that is applicable to their local setting, complying with national guidelines on social distancing and travel restrictions.
World Rugby Chairman Sir Bill Beaumont said, “We are aLl missing the sport that we know and love, and while it is difficult not to be playing or training, advice by the respective government and authorities must adhere to”.
“World Rugby, in full partnership with unions and players, has been busy behind the scenes ensuring that everything is in place for a safe and speedy return to the sport when it is appropriate to do so, ” he added.
