Pro14 organisers have decided to suspend the 2019/2020 season on an indefinite basis due the Corona virus outbreak.
The board of Celtic Rugby DAC met via teleconference this week and set strict criteria about the resumption of the league if it were to resume later in the year.
The Pro14 issued the following statement on their website:
No decision on a definitive re-commencement date can be made until four key criteria can be met within our respective competing territories:
- Public Health Authorities cease to prohibit the resumption of sport and group training
- Travel restrictions between our territories are lifted
- No forced isolation or quarantine orders are in force when visiting our territories
- Player welfare is safeguarded, including requirement for a suitable pre-recommencement training period, to be established in conjunction with the high-performance personnel at our participating unions and teams
Due to the evolving situation, unfortunately the board had to take the further decision to cancel the Guinness PRO14 Final at Cardiff City Stadium, set to take place on June 20. Refunds will be made automatically to all who have already purchased tickets.
Full information on refunds will be available on https://www.pro14.rugby/final in the next 24 hours.
Proposals regarding how to restart the season will be reviewed in the near future. PRO14 Rugby is working with key stakeholders to carefully examine several proposals that can be implemented and delivered in order to close out the season – albeit at a later date.
Should any final be played as part of the 2019/20 season, it will be hosted by the team with highest ranking based upon league records from this campaign.
When positive indicators on the criteria listed above PRO14 Rugby will provide another update.
Everyone across the Guinness PRO14 would urge fans and everyone involved in the sport of rugby to heed the directions from their local health authorities regarding the COVID-19 outbreak and play their part in staying safe.