RFU Suspends All Rugby Activities in England Amidst the Coronavirus Pandemic

The Rugby football Union (RFU) has suspended rugby activity in England at all levels in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. The suspension includes club training, league and cup matches.

RFU announced via a statement on Tuesday that all activities will remain suspended till April 14.

“Rugby activity includes club training, league and cup matches plus rugby education courses from 17 March until 14 April subject to continued review,” the statement read.

“The decision has been taken following government advice in the interests of players, coaches, referees, volunteers, supporters, and the wider rugby union community.”

The Heineken Champions Cup and the Challenge Cup quarter-finals were to take place in early April. But the suspension of the league means that the events will not stick to the original schedule.

“Where possible, players at all levels are encouraged to maintain their own personal fitness and keep active during this time, while following government guidelines about safe distance and safe exercise environments,” the statement further read.

“The RFU will continue to review and monitor government advice and will provide detailed updates on the impact to the season in the coming weeks.”

Premiership rugby fans will have to wait for the action to resume

The Premiership rugby season was into its 14th week of the season when the RFU announced the suspension. There are still nine rounds of the Premiership to go before the semi-finals and finals. If things pan out positively, the season will season could have a delayed end.

After the suspension, the Premiership apologized to the fans in a statement.

“We are sorry to tell our fans that we will be postponing our season for five weeks, in line with today’s advice of Prime Minister Boris Johnson, which confirmed that the Government would no longer support mass gatherings,” the statement read.

“The safety of our fans and staff is our first priority, and we would like to wish all of those who are affected our heartfelt best wishes and a very speedy recovery.

“We’ll continue to work closely with DCMS and Public Health England. And to follow the advice of medical experts, and work with our clubs to help them to support their own wider communities at this time.”