AFL boss Gill McLachlan concedes games may have to be played at empty stadiums because of the coronavirus
AFL boss Gillon McLachlan says matches will be played in empty stadiums if public gatherings are banned or limited because of the coronavirus. It comes as some clubs start to take preventive measures of their own.
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AFL boss Gillon McLachlan says the organisation is intending to “play every game this season” but has conceded they could be played in empty stadiums for the first time in its 124-season history if the coronavirus outbreak worsens in Australia.
And a number of clubs, including Port Adelaide, have started to take preventive measures to limit and in some cases stop visitors to their headquarters and football departments as a precaution.
The worldwide spread of the virus has already claimed one AFL game, with Port’s Shanghai clash against St Kilda shifted back to Marvel Stadium in Melbourne.
McLachlan said the AFL was preparing for more impacts from the coronavirus and had set up a working group to respond to any changes in the situation.
The AFL boss met with the 18 clubs on Tuesday to discuss likely contingencies that could arise in the coming weeks and months.
After the Victorian government indicated it was “likely” that restrictions or bans on public gatherings will be required at some stage, McLachlan said fans might have to be kept away.
“If mass gatherings are suspended then we will play games in stadiums with no crowds,” he said.
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“We are also working on other protocols to protect not only players and staff, but our members and supporters.
“We intend to play every game this season, that’s all I can say.
“(But) we’ve got to contemplate a range of scenarios.”
Round 1 of this season is next week, and the first game in Adelaide will see the Crows take on Sydney on Saturday evening.
An Adelaide Oval Stadium Management Authority spokesman told The Advertiser contingency plans were in place and it would introduce “some additional precautionary messaging for staff and patrons”.
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“However, it is otherwise very much business as usual as we prepare for the new season of footy,” he said.
“Should any escalation be required, Adelaide Oval will be guided by the advice of the Chief Medical Officers of the Commonwealth and State Governments and the AFL.”
SANFL games could also be affected.
It comes as a number of clubs begin to take steps of their own to prevent any potential spread.
Port Adelaide will start to limit and in some cases stop tour groups and visitors coming into the club and football department at its Alberton base.
It will also significantly increase its cleaning schedule with its provider, introduce sanitising stations around the office and reinstate flu shots for staff.
Richmond and GWS have closed off access to their respective football departments.
Power fans will still be allowed to attend open training sessions, if the club has them, and visit the Port club at Alberton.
Other clubs are expected to take similar measures.
A Crows spokesman said if mass gatherings are suspended and matches proceed in a closed enviornment then the club and industry “will work through those challenges”.
“We have established a working group within our club and today received a thorough briefing from the AFL,” he said.
“Like all organisations around Australia, we continue to take advice from governments and relevant medical experts.
“Their informed views will help shape our decision making.”