The coronavirus has affected different aspects of the world economy. Apart from the health sector, trade and commerce, stock exchange and also the world of sports. The virus has affected sporting events and sports personnel across the world as some leagues and competitions across all sporting events have been suspended or postponed until when the virus is under the control.
Some of the persons affected by the virus so far are Arsenal Manager, Mikel Arteta, Chelsea forward Calum Hudson-Odoi, Sampdoria striker Manolo Gabbiadini, Juventus Defender, Daniele Rugani and most recently Valencia and Argentina defender, Ezequiel Garay.
Leicester City manager, Brendan Rodgers also confirmed that three of his players have shown symptoms of the virus but their identities were not released. Also, owner of Olympiacos and Nottingham Forest, Evangelos Marinakis was also confirmed to have been infected.
Europe’s top 5 football leagues have all been suspended till the 3rd of April. The top 5 leagues in Europe are present in England, Spain, Italy, Germany and France. The Football associations of these five countries have announced the suspension of all their football leagues across all tiers.
In a statement released last week, UEFA announced the suspension of all UEFA Champions League and all UEFA Europa League fixtures till further notice. Recent matches in both competitions have been played behind closed doors. Certain clubs involved in both competitions are currently carrying out self-isolation as a precautionary measure.
In other sports…
Two basketballers for the Utah Jazz have also been tested positive for COVID19. After Rudy Gobert had been diagnosed with the virus, the National Basketball Association (NBA) suspended the current campaign until further notice. The next day after the announcement, Donovan Mitchell tested positive. Detroit Pistons’ Chris Wood tested positive this weekend.
The Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix was suspended after team McLaren pulled out after one of their mechanics tested positive for the virus. Although the Bahrain race set to take place behind closed doors is yet to be cancelled, the discussion has been going on to possibly suspend the start of the Formula 1 season till June.
Sporting events bring people together which means crowded areas are inevitable. With the nature of COVID-19, it is advised to avoid public places by all means. Once symptoms have been detected, the first line of action is self-isolation. After results have been carried out, if positive, immediate treatment and a 14-day quarantine is required.
In a bid to avoid being infected by the virus, personal hygiene should not be neglected. Regular washing of hands and use of hand sanitizers has been advised by medical practitioners. Also, avoid touching your face with your hands. Use your elbows to cover your mouth or nose when coughing or sneezing.
