Sports and the coronavirus outbreak

As professional tennis in the USA takes a hit as the 2020 Indian Wells Masters, scheduled for March 9-22 in Indian Wells, CA, has been cancelled due to concerns surrounding the coronavirus, prominent sailing events elsewhere are also feeling the impact from this public health emergency:

Due to the number of coronavirus cases reported in Italy as a consequence of the global COVID-19 epidemic, the Italian Sailing Federation suspended all events and competitions on a national basis until next April 3rd. As a result, the ROLEX Capri Sailing Week on May 16-22 is on hold as to whether it will occur.

This event, which includes inshore and offshore racing in the waters of the island of Capri and in the gulfs of Naples, Salerno and Gaeta, is being used ORC European Championship, Italian Offshore Championship, and on the schedule for the International Maxi Association. Details.
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The International J/24 Class Association announced the cancellation of the 2020 J/24 European Championship scheduled for April 29-May 5 at Porto San Rocco, Muggia (Trieste), Italy.

The spread of the Covid-19 virus has caused concern worldwide. The Italian government’s latest restrictions impede travel within Italy and place prohibitions on sporting events and gatherings. These new restrictions are in place until April 3.

“At this time, we must confront the possibility that these restrictions within Italy could be extended or ended,” said Sponza, “Other European governments may impose similar restrictions on travel in the near future. All these restrictions have impact on the competitors who have registered for this year’s European Championship.” Details.
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The Organizing Authority of the 2020 ASAF Asian Championships, which were due to be held on March 15-22 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, have postponed the Championships as a precautionary measure due to COVID-19. The Organizing Authority has commenced work with all stakeholders to finalize new dates in April.

World Sailing and the International Olympic Committee acknowledged the postponement. The 2020 ASAF Asian Championships is an Asian Tokyo 2020 Continental Olympic Qualification Event for the Laser, Laser Radial, 49er, and Men’s and Women’s RS:X. Details.

With Major League Baseball to host its opening day for the 2020 season on March 26, the league is expected to start as scheduled despite complications and precautionary action related to the ongoing coronavirus outbreak. At present, league officials are not expected to make any alterations to the 2020 schedule or order that games be played without fans present. Details.