The Rugby Football League have confirmed that all of this weekend’s games, including Catalans and Toulouse home matches, are set to go ahead despite the coronavirus outbreak.
Recent days has seen a number of sporting events around Europe called off due to the rising threat of COVID-19, with rugby league fan’s raising concerns about travelling.
However the RFL has confirmed to Serious About RL that all matches will go ahead as planned, but have urged supporters to follow government guidelines.
“Both games involving Salford and Batley in France this weekend are still definitely on at this stage,” said an RFL spokesperson.
“We have spoken to both clubs, and they have assured us that they are expecting to travel to France as they normally would.
“Contingency planning is going ahead, but the government are keen for there to be no panic.
Salford’s players and staff will travel to the South of France as planned this weekend. Credit: News Images
“The French government have already taken some action, but I’ve heard nothing from them today, which I was hoping to.
“I would say that people staying in Spain for games at Catalans is much more of a thought to consider at the moment.
“Fans who are travelling overseas are recommended to just follow the government guidelines, and watch out for the tomorrow’s publication of the report from today’s Cobra meeting.”
The RFL also revealed that extra caution is being taken with the Super League fixture schedule.
“Long conversations have taken place regarding re-arranging cancelled games, particularly the Wakefield Trinity v Catalans Dragons game.
“We will continue with re-arranging the St Helens v Catalans Dragons game in due course.”
More announcements are expected should the virus spread further afield with Toronto set to play their first home match in Canada in just over a month.
Steve McNamara revealed on Sunday that the coronavirus had been spoken about in the Catalans camp. Credit: News Images
Four of Catalans next six matches are also in the South of France and head coach Steve McNamara admitted concerns during his post-match press conference on Sunday.
“We’ve spoke about it,” he said. “I think there is some talk there in France about shutting stadiums and games down, we’re not sure yet.”
A media representative from the Dragons added: “They prevent a game indoors for attendance of more than 5,000 people.
“But in a stadium, it’s alright, all the football and the rugby union games are on as scheduled, so it’s affecting indoor stadiums.”
For supporters travelling abroad over the next few weeks, the NHS website provides advice and necessary precautions. Click here for more information.
