…but there is a “but”.
Championships in danger?
The Nordic, Alpine Ski and Biathlon World Cup may be canceled at any time. It can be done by both the government and city authorities - the situation related to the spread of coronavirus infection decides.
The government and the municipalities organizing the competitions may cancel them
The uncertainty surrounding the spread of the UK variant of coronavirus is why the government has made a number of reservations. They concern the opening World Cup in Nordic skiing, alpine skiing and biathlon in Norway. Both the government and municipalities organizing competitions can cancel events at short notice.
The government was unaware of this new situation
- I understand that many are reacting to the fact that the government granted conditional approval to the World Cup on the same day it became known that British coronavirus mutation has been detected in Nordre Follo. When the government made its decision, we were not aware of this new situation, but we were aware of the threat of this type of epidemic. This is also the reason why the government has very clear reservations about the situation. Now athletes are required to apply for a permit to their host municipalities, says Minister of Health and Welfare Bent Høie.
The organizers of the world championship had to be notified no later than today (22.01). That it is possible to organize a competition, otherwise they would have to cancel it.
Today was absolutely the last deadline for a reply
- The government wanted to be able to postpone this decision, as these events are planned for a few weeks ahead. But such a postponement would mean that all events could be canceled. Today (22.01) was absolutely the last deadline for a reply regarding the championship. As the decision concerns professions that are part of the future, clear concerns have been raised about the pandemic situation, says Høie.
For example, if the city of Oslo finds it unreasonable to hold this event at Holmenkollen in mid-March. The City Council may decide to close the event at any time. In addition, the government will also be able to withdraw consent at any time during the entire process.
. Less risk
The government emphasized that winter sports are individual sports. These sports take place outdoors and therefore there is less risk of spreading infection than, for example, indoor contact sports. Participants will mainly come directly from another event and thus remain in the "infection control bubble" in which they live and compete.
Strengthened infection control system
The Norwegian Ski Association has proposed an enhanced infection control system upon arrival. This includes, but is not limited to, arrivals at least 2-3 days in advance. Mandatory test upon arrival and quarantine in a private room with own shower and toilet.
Norwegian Directorate of Health noted that six of the eight events in the disciplines of Nordic skiing, alpine skiing and biathlon will be held in the municipalities of Oslo, Trondheim or Lillehammer
