Covid update: more scope for competitions, spectators welcome again

The measures against the spread of the coronavirus are being phased out further. Bouts can be held again outside the athlete's own gym. Spectators are welcome again, subject to conditions. Sports facilities may open until 10 p.m., also subject to conditions. The relaxations took effect on 26 January and apply for at least six weeks.

The relaxation comes as a great relief to thousands of martial arts athletes and their coaches who are eager for real competition. It is also good news for promoters, after a long period in which little was possible and the (financial) risks of organising events were considerable.

The relaxations are, however, subject to conditions. The one-and-a-half metre distancing rule remains in force and also applies before and after training. Spectators, who may attend sports events between 5 a.m. and 10 p.m., must also keep their distance. If spectators have fixed seating, a venue may use as many seats as the 1.5 metre rule allows. Sports facilities may admit a maximum of 1,250 visitors. For indoor sport, a Covid entry pass (coronatoegangsbewijs) is required from the age of 18. Face masks are mandatory for people aged 13 and over at indoor sports venues, except while exercising. All rules for sport can be found on the website of the Dutch central government (Rijksoverheid).

The VA is confident that the martial arts sector will make responsible use of these relaxations.