Elite sports will continue behind closed doors in England despite large areas of the southeast moving into tighter coronavirus restrictions.
Secretary of State for Sport Oliver Dowden confirmed that elite sport would continue but without fans after the Government introduced new Tier 4 Covid rules in areas including London, Kent, Essex and Bedfordshire.
People in Tier 4 can’t mix indoors with anyone who isn’t from their home, but elite sports will be able to keep going.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced the new Tier 4 restrictions at a press conference on Downing Street on Saturday afternoon.
Dowden then reaffirmed the Government ‘s position on Saturday night that elite sports will be able to continue.
“Unfortunately, fast-rising issues and emerging information about the new Covid variant mean that London and parts of the South East now have to move into Level 4, which will similar to national restrictions in November, “he tweeted.
“Previous exemptions apply to those who have to work, eg elite athletes, athletes etc.
“Professional sport and culture can continue behind closed doors in Level 4.”