UPDATE 24th March 2020 - COVID-19 Situation

As an international federation we continue to keep the worldwide CP Football family informed through our updates. We appreciate the position and differing national situations of all key stakeholders as we have continued to review the evolving global picture and act accordingly.

During uncertain times it is the social responsibility of governing bodies such as IFCPF to protect everyone involved in the sport of CP Football by protecting health, calling for solidarity and aiming to maintain a sense of calm.

In balancing our aims to protect health, minimise economic and social disruption, and respect human rights; we have taken the time over the past few weeks to observe the developing global situation. This time has given us the opportunity to consult with members of the CP Football family, our Local Organising Committees (LOCs) and the IFCPF Medical Committee.

World Health Organisation (WHO)

More than 210,000 cases have now been reported to WHO, and more than 9,000 people have lost their lives. Every loss of life is tragic, and all the more reason for us to play our part in being socially responsible and tackling the virus.

In the last week the unprecedented impact from COVID-19 has led to cancellation of nearly all sport across the world for the next two months, implementation of travel bans (both national and international), the closure of educational establishments, leisure facilities and shops and any kind of mass gathering is increasingly prohibited.

All these social distancing measures aim to help slow the transmission of the virus, put downward pressure on the curve and reduce the burden on health systems. It is important to be aware that even if you don’t get sick, the choices you make about where you go could make the difference for someone else.

WHO Health Alert messaging service

To increase access to reliable information, the WHO has worked with WhatsApp and Facebook to launch a new WHO Health Alert messaging service. This service will provide the latest news and information on COVID-19, including details on symptoms and how to protect yourself. The Health Alert service is now available in English and will be introduced in other languages next week.

To access it, send the word "hi" to the following number on WhatsApp: +41 798 931 892

Recommendations

It is understandable that people may feel anxious about the outbreak, however it is important to get the facts from reliable sources to help you accurately determine your risks so that you can take reasonable precautions. The WHO provides information and guidance about COVID-19, particularly in relation to protecting yourself and preventing spread, here.

With many governments around the world implementing social distancing measures to stop transmission of the virus, IFCPF is recommending that all member organisations suspend all domestic competitions and team/group training in-line with government advice. Players should maintain their physical and mental wellbeing through individual training activities. 

IFCPF have introduced a social media campaign to bring together the CP Football family to help everyone win this important match against the virus with 7 key tactics. We encourage all members of the CP Football family to play their part in helping to share these messages of the best ways to protect themselves and others.

Our social media campaign is also aimed to connect people at a time when we must stay away from the stadiums, the pitches and our team-mates. It is vital to protect both physical health and mental health through our shared love of football.

Postponements and Cancellations

We appreciate all IFCPF members sharing their national information, which has supported IFCPF and Local Organising Committees (LOC) to have the most up-to-date information and position for decision making. The decisions taken by IFCPF’s Management Team follow communication with our 50 member organisations and worldwide CP Football family, as well as Local Organising Committees (LOCs), IFCPF Medical Committee.

IFCPF continues to closely monitor the situation and recognised guidance from the WHO. The health of all those involved in the game is our priority, as well as to avoid placing any unnecessary pressure on the local health services when staging our tournaments.

In light of developments due to the spread of COVID-19 and the related travel restrictions imposed by national governments, the following tournaments have been postponed until further notice.

2020 IFCPF Nations Cup(m)

This tournament has been postponed tentatively until 15th – 25th October 2020.

2020 IFCPF Champions League

2020 IFCPF Nations Championships(m)

2020 IFCPF World Cup(f)

To provide some reassurance and clarity for IFCPF members, teams and athletes, IFCPF have set a decision deadline of 31st July 2020 as to whether competitions will take place in 2020 or be cancelled.

10th ASEAN Para Games – Philippines 2020

The ASEAN Para Sports Federation (APSF) Board of Governors communicated to IFCPF on 23rd March 2020 that the games will now take place 3rd to 9th October 2020, with conditions that the COVID-19 pandemic is put under control and no longer a threat.

The APSF Board will convene another meeting at the end of July to assess the situation. IFCPF will continue to update our members on further developments.

Further Updates

IFCPF shall provide further updates now on a monthly basis, or as required, as we continue to monitor and review the evolving global situation. We appreciate the support and understanding of the entire CP Football family during this challenging time for us all.