Cheetahs PRO14

Latest sports news:: Junior Pokomela of Cheetahs is tackled by Luke Morgan of Ospreys during the Guinness Pro14 match between Ospreys and Toyota Cheetahs at the Gnoll on November 30, 2019 in Neath, Wales. (Photo by Gruffydd Thomas/Gallo Images)

Pro14 2020 season suspended amid Coronavirus fears

The Pro14 has been added to the list of sports events suspended in an effort to quell the rapid spread of the deadly Coronavirus.

Cheetahs PRO14

Latest sports news:: Junior Pokomela of Cheetahs is tackled by Luke Morgan of Ospreys during the Guinness Pro14 match between Ospreys and Toyota Cheetahs at the Gnoll on November 30, 2019 in Neath, Wales. (Photo by Gruffydd Thomas/Gallo Images)

The current Guinness Pro14 season has been suspended in response to the evolving COVID-19 outbreak, the organisers announced on Thursday.

Pro14 season suspended

The competition – which features rugby teams from Ireland, Scotland, Italy, Wales, and South Africa was set to head into its 14th round of matches in the coming weekend.

The two South African teams – Free State Cheetahs and the Southern Kings – were scheduled to play at home, welcoming Edinburgh and Leinster respectively.

“The PRO14 is an international league. Cross border travel is inevitable and that brings with it unique challenges. With governments in Italy and Ireland already putting in place clear directives and restrictions around public activities and travel, the decision to suspend the competition is appropriate,” said a statement following a board meeting of Celtic Rugby DAC. 

“It is in the best interests of everyone that games are not played at this time. The suspension has been directed by the board of Celtic Rugby DAC and will remain under constant review.”

Coronavirus fears halt another sport event

David Jordan, Tournament Director PRO14 Rugby, said: 

We have made this decision with everyone’s welfare foremost in our minds. With an evolving situation in the five countries that take part in Guinness Pro14, it is important to make a clear decision that is in keeping with the advice of the various governments involved.”

David Jordan

Resumption of the 2019/20 season would remain a matter of constant review.

“This will remain the case for the duration of the suspension,” said the statement. “This is an unprecedented action for the tournament and as such no end date to the suspension can be provided at this time.”

David Jordan

South Africa’s two competitors in the tournament – the Cheetahs and Southern Kings – will cease competitive action until the suspension is lifted.