New coronavirus measures: consequences for combat sports

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This article was amended on 14 October 2020 at 20:15

On Tuesday evening the government announced new coronavirus measures that also affect combat sports. They take effect on Wednesday 14 October at 22:00 and apply for four weeks.

Gyms remain open. Young people may continue to train in groups. Adults may train with a maximum of thirty people per space. They must once again observe the one and a half metre distance. That also applies to personal training. Sparring and pad work are therefore not possible for adults for the time being. Elite athletes may continue to train at designated elite sport locations. Competitions are prohibited for the time being, for both amateurs and professionals.

In two weeks it will be decided whether the measures will be extended, tightened or eased. The measures are set out in outline here. The amended sport protocol of NOC*NSF (the Dutch Olympic Committee and Dutch Sports Federation) is available here. Frequently asked questions about the sport measures, with answers, are available here. The VA has amended its protocols for training sessions and events.

Elite sport locations
The government has determined that training by a select group of elite athletes is possible under certain conditions and at approved locations. For combat sports, the umbrella sports organisation NOC*NSF has limited this to athletes in the top 8 of UFC, Bellator, OneFC and Glory. Applications for elite sport location status in combat sports are coordinated by the VA and assessed by NOC*NSF. Locations wishing to apply for recognition must contact the VA before 20 October 2020 at info@vechtsportautoriteit.nl