The curfew, which is likely to start in the coming days in the Netherlands, does not apply to top athletes. Athletes are also allowed to go outside after 8:30 pm, which is when the government wants to impose a curfew.
A spokesperson for the Department of Security and Justice told NU.nl on Wednesday that athletes are counting on their employer, who must issue a statement to obtain permission.
It is expected that the clubs and federations concerned will arrange such an announcement, which means that all professional athletes will be able to train and play matches despite the curfew, so that the major leagues are not damaged.
This means, among other things, that the Dutch League season and major competitions in other sports can continue and Olympic athletes can continue their preparations for the Olympic Games in Tokyo without hindrance.
The National Football Association (KNVB) said in its response that the federation had yet to make a decision on whether matches in professional football would also take place in the evening in the coming weeks after the curfew was imposed.
A KNVB spokesperson said, “We want to wait for the debate in the House of Representatives on Thursday before we say anything about it.”
However, a curfew was imposed on amateur athletes
The temporary cabinet proposed to impose a curfew from 8:30 pm to 4:30 am on Wednesday. Permission from the House of Representatives is still required to introduce this rule. Initially, a discussion was planned for Wednesday, but at the request of D66 and ChristenUnie it was postponed by a day.
Curfews apply to athletes at lower levels. Sports parachute NOC * NSF voiced concerns about this Tuesday through director Gerard Delissen. “It is expected that the sports show for all Dutch will be halted almost completely,” he said.
The National Security Council (KNVB) hopes to begin curfew an hour later than currently planned. According to the Football Association, it is not possible for many people to continue exercising if they have to go home by 8:30 pm.
According to the KNVB, “Of course we cannot estimate whether a curfew is necessary.” “We know 100 percent with certainty that sport and exercise are essential for health and resistance. Outdoor sports are also responsible.”
“Athletes and amateur volunteers have to work or go to school during the day. Then they can only work on their health. With the curfew starting at 8.30 pm, these possibilities are now limited. This (also) has negative health consequences for a wide range of People. It shouldn’t take long. “
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