One by one, sports codes make switch to empty stadiums

AUSTRALIAN sporting codes are shutting out fans after the coronavirus pandemic forced the cancellation of the Formula One Grand Prix and other events.

The NRL will stage games from next weekend in empty stadiums after the Federal Government banned non-essential gatherings of more than 500 people from Monday.

The AFL’s men’s and women’s competitions will also be held with no fans.

Basketball authorities closed the NBL’s grand final series to spectators from last night’s game two, rugby union’s Super Rugby games in Australia will follow suit from next weekend and swimming’s hierarchy has called off next month’s national titles.

Australia’s men’s cricket team played a one-day international against New Zealand at an empty SCG yesterday, hours after the Grand Prix became Australia’s first sporting event cancelled due to coronavirus.

Supercars races were also cancelled and Super Netball’s pre-season tournament this month was scrapped.

Australian sports had no choice but to follow leagues around the world in holding games without spectators or suspending competition after Prime Minister Scott Morrison’s ban on mass gatherings.

NRL chief executive Todd Greenberg said last night’s matches would proceed with spectators, but Round 2 games would be in empty stadiums.

Rugby Australia chief executive Raelene Castle said fans were allowed into Super Rugby games this weekend, but would be banned indefinitely from the next round.

Football Federation Australia called off overseas travel for national teams, starting with next month’s friendly between the Matildas and the US.

FFA CEO James Johnson said A-League and W-League matches this weekend would go ahead with crowds, but cycling bosses have cancelled the BMX national titles.

THE English Premier League last night suspended all fixtures until April 4 after Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta and Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi tested positive for coronavirus.