15/03/2020
International Federation – Coronavirus Statement
This message will be updated as new information comes to hand.
The FIT Board are monitoring the situation with regards to the outbreak of the novel coronavirus
The reach of the virus has increased significantly globally.
On 11 March 2020 the WHO officially categorised the disease a pandemic.
The FIT Board has subsequently made the following decisions:
1. In agreement with the host nation, China, we have postponed the 2020 Asian Touch Cup. We will review the situation in July 2020 to decide if we will reschedule the tournament in 2021.
2. In agreement with the host nation, the Philippines, we have cancelled the 2020 Asian Club Championships.
3. We have suspended all international travel by FIT personnel (including board and commission members) until further notice.
With regards to the 2020 European Championships, due to be hosted by England in July, the European Federation of Touch (EFT) will make a determination on whether this event will proceed.
The following broad principles drive this response:
1. People first – our main priority is the health of everyone involved in our sport.
2. Our core sources of data and recommendations remain WHO, however, we also consider news sources and what other sports, governments, airlines, and businesses are doing.
3. Our fundamental approach is to minimise potential exposure to the virus in order to reduce transmission.
Finally, FIT recommends that all member nations review their own travel policy and all available data to determine if they endorse the activities of their athletes and officials.