<p>Formula One boss Chase Carey on Monday targeted the coronavirus-hit season eventually starting in Austria on July 5 after the French Grand Prix was cancelled and fans barred from the British race at Silverstone.</p>

<p>The French Grand Prix, which was to have been held on June 28, was the tenth race of the season to be scrapped or postponed.</p>

<p>"We’re targeting a start to racing in Europe through July, August and beginning of September, with the first race taking place in Austria on 3-5 July weekend," Carey said in a statement.</p>

<p>"September, October and November, would see us race in Eurasia, Asia and the Americas, finishing the season in the Gulf in December with Bahrain before the traditional finale in Abu Dhabi, having completed between 15-18 races."</p>

<p>Carey's statement followed quickfire announcements from the French organisers and a statement from the owners of the Silverstone track where the British Grand Prix is due to take place on July 19.</p>

<p>"Given the evolution of the situation linked to the spread of the Covid-19 virus, the French Grand Prix takes note of the decisions announced by the French state, making it impossible to maintain our event," the race's managing director Eric Boullier said.</p>

<p>It joins nine other races in the decimated 2020 championship to be either cancelled (Australia, Monaco) or postponed (Bahrain, China, Vietnam, Netherlands, Spain, Azerbaijan, Canada).</p>

<p>Organisers of the race at Le Castellet were forced to act after President Emmanuel Macron's announcement last week that the lockdown in France will be extended until May 11 and public gatherings banned until mid-July.</p>

<p>Ruling out holding the race behind closed doors, Boullier said: "Le Castellet are already turning towards the summer of 2021".</p>

<h2>- 'Races without fans' -</h2>

<p>In a series of coordinated announcements, Silverstone's owners then announced that no spectators would be able to attend the British Grand Prix but that they hope it will go ahead as scheduled.</p>

<p>"I am extremely disappointed to tell you that we are unable to stage this year's British Grand Prix in front of the fans at Silverstone," the circuit's managing director Stuart Pringle stated on Silverstone's Twitter account.</p>

<p>"We have left this difficult decision for as long as possible, but it is abundantly clear given the current conditions... that a grand prix under normal conditions is just not going to be possible."</p>

<p>F1 supremo Carey said he expected "the early races to be without fans" but hoped that spectators would be allowed back "as we move further into the schedule".</p>

<p>He added: "We still have to work out many issues like the procedures for the teams and our other partners to enter and operate in each country.</p>

<p>"The health and safety of all involved will continue to be priority one and we will only go forward if we are confident we have reliable procedures to address both risks and possible issues."</p>


Formula One boss Chase Carey on Monday targeted the coronavirus-hit season eventually starting in Austria on July 5 after the French Grand Prix was cancelled and fans barred from the British race at Silverstone.

Formula One boss Chase Carey on Monday targeted the coronavirus-hit season eventually starting in Austria on July 5 after the French Grand Prix was cancelled and fans barred from the British race at Silverstone. The French Grand Prix, which was to have been held on June 28, was the tenth race of the season to be scrapped or postponed. "We’re targeting a start to racing in Europe through July, August and beginning of September, with the first race taking place in Austria on 3-5 July weekend," Carey said in a statement. "September, October and November, would see us race in Eurasia, Asia and the Americas, finishing the season in the Gulf in December with Bahrain before the traditional finale in Abu Dhabi, having completed between 15-18 races." Carey's statement followed quickfire announcements from the French organisers and a statement from the owners of the Silverstone track where the British Grand Prix is due to take place on July 19. "Given the evolution of the situation linked to the spread of the Covid-19 virus, the French Grand Prix takes note of the decisions announced by the French state, making it impossible to maintain our event," the race's managing director Eric Boullier said. It joins nine other races in the decimated 2020 championship to be either cancelled (Australia, Monaco) or postponed (Bahrain, China, Vietnam, Netherlands, Spain, Azerbaijan, Canada). Organisers of the race at Le Castellet were forced to act after President Emmanuel Macron's announcement last week that the lockdown in France will be extended until May 11 and public gatherings banned until mid-July. Ruling out holding the race behind closed doors, Boullier said: "Le Castellet are already turning towards the summer of 2021". - 'Races without fans' - In a series of coordinated announcements, Silverstone's owners then announced that no spectators would be able to attend the British Grand Prix but that they hope it will go ahead as scheduled. "I am extremely disappointed to tell you that we are unable to stage this year's British Grand Prix in front of the fans at Silverstone," the circuit's managing director Stuart Pringle stated on Silverstone's Twitter account. "We have left this difficult decision for as long as possible, but it is abundantly clear given the current conditions... that a grand prix under normal conditions is just not going to be possible." F1 supremo Carey said he expected "the early races to be without fans" but hoped that spectators would be allowed back "as we move further into the schedule". He added: "We still have to work out many issues like the procedures for the teams and our other partners to enter and operate in each country. "The health and safety of all involved will continue to be priority one and we will only go forward if we are confident we have reliable procedures to address both risks and possible issues."

F1 season set for Austria start as French Grand Prix cancelled

<p>Silverstone owners said on Monday that no spectators would be able to attend the British Grand Prix due to the coronavirus pandemic but the race is still scheduled to go ahead.</p>

<p>The French Grand Prix scheduled for June 28 was cancelled on Monday but while organisers have not yet made a final decision on postponing or cancelling the July 19 British race, Silverstone managing director Stuart Pringle paved the way for a behind-closed-doors race.</p>

<p>"I am extremely disappointed to tell you that we are unable to stage this year's British Grand Prix in front of the fans at Silverstone," Pringle in his statement on Silverstone's Twitter account.</p>

<p>"We have left this difficult decision for as long as possible, but it is abundantly clear given the current conditions... that a grand prix under normal conditions is just not going to be possible."</p>

<p>Britain has been one of the countries worst affected by the COVID-19 outbreak, with the number of deaths topping 20,000.</p>

<p>The actual toll could be much higher when deaths in the community are taken into account, particularly at care homes.</p>

<p>The French Grand Prix is the 10th leg of the 2020 championship to be either scrapped (Australia, Monaco, France) or postponed (Bahrain, China, Vietnam, Netherlands, Spain, Azerbaijan, Canada).</p>


Silverstone owners said on Monday that no spectators would be able to attend the British Grand Prix due to the coronavirus pandemic but the race is still scheduled to go ahead.

Silverstone owners said on Monday that no spectators would be able to attend the British Grand Prix due to the coronavirus pandemic but the race is still scheduled to go ahead. The French Grand Prix scheduled for June 28 was cancelled on Monday but while organisers have not yet made a final decision on postponing or cancelling the July 19 British race, Silverstone managing director Stuart Pringle paved the way for a behind-closed-doors race. "I am extremely disappointed to tell you that we are unable to stage this year's British Grand Prix in front of the fans at Silverstone," Pringle in his statement on Silverstone's Twitter account. "We have left this difficult decision for as long as possible, but it is abundantly clear given the current conditions... that a grand prix under normal conditions is just not going to be possible." Britain has been one of the countries worst affected by the COVID-19 outbreak, with the number of deaths topping 20,000. The actual toll could be much higher when deaths in the community are taken into account, particularly at care homes. The French Grand Prix is the 10th leg of the 2020 championship to be either scrapped (Australia, Monaco, France) or postponed (Bahrain, China, Vietnam, Netherlands, Spain, Azerbaijan, Canada).

British GP will not take place in front of fans: Silverstone

<p>As almost the entire world continues to fight against the dreaded COVID-19 pandemic, sportspersons have come forward and donated their bit to help their respective government fight the virus. Stepping forward once again, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) duo Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers have decided to auction memorabilia from their record-shattering match against Gujarat Lions in the 2016 edition of Indian Premier League (IPL).</p>

<p>Both Kohli and de Villiers took to social media platform Instagram to announce that Kohli’s bat and gloves and de Villiers’ shit and bat from the match will be auctioned to raise funds to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. In the match, both Kohli and de Villiers had scored a century each in a blistering partnership of 229 runs off 96 deliveries to help RCB post a mammoth total of 248/4.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-is-not-war-should-be-played-between-india-and-pakistan-saqlain-mushtaq-throws-his-weight-behind-indo-pak-bilateral-series-295028" hreflang="en">Cricket is not war; should be played between India and Pakistan - Saqlain Mushtaq throws his weight behind Indo-Pak bilateral series</a></strong></p>

<p>Kohli, taking to Instagram, wrote while sharing de Villiers’ post: &nbsp;"I'm glad to be doing this with my very dear friend @abdevilliers17 . All details are mentioned below and more will be communicated in time."</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B_eirM2lkAc/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">I'm glad to be doing this with my very dear friend @abdevilliers17 . All details are mentioned below and more will be communicated in time. #Repost @abdevilliers17 ・・・ Cricket has given me many incredible memories - and, among the most precious, stands the partnership with @virat.kohli , playing for RCB and against Gujarat Lions in 2016. Everything clicked on what was a truly unforgettable night at the IPL. The capacity crowd at the M. Chinnaswamy stadium were going crazy, and we both scored centuries in a partnership of 229 runs from 96 balls. More importantly, RCB won the match by 144 runs. Now we find ourselves in a global crisis caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, and Virat and I would like to help people in need, people struggling to put food on the table. So we are donating some of the key items from that special day in 2016 - Virat’s bat and gloves, my shirt and bat - and creating one unique auction item, on the Bid or Buy online platform(link in my bio-type key words in the search button to find the piece). All money raised will be donated to charities supporting people most severely affected by the crisis, split 50/50 between charities working in SA and India. Immediately after the auction closes on 10 May, 2020, I will personally contact the winner and make arrangements for the package to be delivered to your home. Take care and stay safe.</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/virat.kohli/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Virat Kohli</a> (@virat.kohli) on <time datetime="2020-04-27T08:14:17+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Apr 27, 2020 at 1:14am PDT</time></p>
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<p>The funds raised from the auction will go to the charities working in India and South Africa on 50-50 split.</p>

<p>“Cricket has given me many incredible memories - and, among the most precious, stands the partnership with @virat.kohli , playing for RCB and against Gujarat Lions in 2016. Everything clicked on what was a truly unforgettable night at the IPL. The capacity crowd at the M. Chinnaswamy stadium were going crazy, and we both scored centuries in a partnership of 229 runs from 96 balls. More importantly, RCB won the match by 144 runs,” de Villiers wrote on Instagram.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/people-said-i-wont-play-for-long-jasprit-bumrah-reveals-how-he-persisted-with-his-action-to-make-team-india-dream-a-reality-295005" hreflang="en">‘People said I won't play for long’: Jasprit Bumrah reveals how he persisted with his action to make Team India dream a reality</a></strong></p>

<p>“Now we find ourselves in a global crisis caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, and Virat and I would like to help people in need, people struggling to put food on the table.</p>

<p>“So we are donating some of the key items from that special day in 2016 - Virat’s bat and gloves, my shirt and bat - and creating one unique auction item, on the Bid or Buy online platform(link in my bio-type key words in the search button to find the piece). All money raised will be donated to charities supporting people most severely affected by the crisis, split 50/50 between charities working in SA and India.</p>

<p>“Immediately after the auction closes on 10 May, 2020, I will personally contact the winner and make arrangements for the package to be delivered to your home. Take care and stay safe.”</p>

<p>In normal circumstances, Kohli and de Villiers would have been playing in IPL 2020 for RCB but the COVID-19 pandemic has led to the cash-rich tournament getting postponed indefinitely. &nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


As almost the entire world continues to fight against the dreaded COVID-19 pandemic, sportspersons have come forward and donated their bit to help their respective government fight the virus.

As almost the entire world continues to fight against the dreaded COVID-19 pandemic, sportspersons have come forward and donated their bit to help their respective government fight the virus. Stepping forward once again, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) duo Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers have decided to auction memorabilia from their record-shattering match against Gujarat Lions in the 2016 edition of Indian Premier League (IPL). Both Kohli and de Villiers took to social media platform Instagram to announce that Kohli’s bat and gloves and de Villiers’ shit and bat from the match will be auctioned to raise funds to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. In the match, both Kohli and de Villiers had scored a century each in a blistering partnership of 229 runs off 96 deliveries to help RCB post a mammoth total of 248/4. ALSO READ: Cricket is not war; should be played between India and Pakistan - Saqlain Mushtaq throws his weight behind Indo-Pak bilateral series Kohli, taking to Instagram, wrote while sharing de Villiers’ post: "I'm glad to be doing this with my very dear friend @abdevilliers17 . All details are mentioned below and more will be communicated in time." View this post on Instagram I'm glad to be doing this with my very dear friend @abdevilliers17 . All details are mentioned below and more will be communicated in time. #Repost @abdevilliers17 ・・・ Cricket has given me many incredible memories - and, among the most precious, stands the partnership with @virat.kohli , playing for RCB and against Gujarat Lions in 2016. Everything clicked on what was a truly unforgettable night at the IPL. The capacity crowd at the M. Chinnaswamy stadium were going crazy, and we both scored centuries in a partnership of 229 runs from 96 balls. More importantly, RCB won the match by 144 runs. Now we find ourselves in a global crisis caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, and Virat and I would like to help people in need, people struggling to put food on the table. So we are donating some of the key items from that special day in 2016 - Virat’s bat and gloves, my shirt and bat - and creating one unique auction item, on the Bid or Buy online platform(link in my bio-type key words in the search button to find the piece). All money raised will be donated to charities supporting people most severely affected by the crisis, split 50/50 between charities working in SA and India. Immediately after the auction closes on 10 May, 2020, I will personally contact the winner and make arrangements for the package to be delivered to your home. Take care and stay safe. A post shared by Virat Kohli (@virat.kohli) on Apr 27, 2020 at 1:14am PDT × The funds raised from the auction will go to the charities working in India and South Africa on 50-50 split. “Cricket has given me many incredible memories - and, among the most precious, stands the partnership with @virat.kohli , playing for RCB and against Gujarat Lions in 2016. Everything clicked on what was a truly unforgettable night at the IPL. The capacity crowd at the M. Chinnaswamy stadium were going crazy, and we both scored centuries in a partnership of 229 runs from 96 balls. More importantly, RCB won the match by 144 runs,” de Villiers wrote on Instagram. ALSO READ: ‘People said I won't play for long’: Jasprit Bumrah reveals how he persisted with his action to make Team India dream a reality “Now we find ourselves in a global crisis caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, and Virat and I would like to help people in need, people struggling to put food on the table. “So we are donating some of the key items from that special day in 2016 - Virat’s bat and gloves, my shirt and bat - and creating one unique auction item, on the Bid or Buy online platform(link in my bio-type key words in the search button to find the piece). All money raised will be donated to charities supporting people most severely affected by the crisis, split 50/50 between charities working in SA and India. “Immediately after the auction closes on 10 May, 2020, I will personally contact the winner and make arrangements for the package to be delivered to your home. Take care and stay safe.” In normal circumstances, Kohli and de Villiers would have been playing in IPL 2020 for RCB but the COVID-19 pandemic has led to the cash-rich tournament getting postponed indefinitely.

RCB's Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers put memorabilia from IPL 2016 on auction to raise funds in battle against COVID-19

<p>The French Grand Prix scheduled for June 28 was cancelled on Monday due to the coronavirus pandemic, organisers announced.</p>

<p>"Given the evolution of the situation linked to the spread of the Covid-19 virus, the French Grand Prix takes note of the decisions announced by the French state, making it impossible to maintain our event," the race's managing director Eric Boullier said.</p>

<p>The race at Le Castellet becomes the 10th leg of the decimated 2020 championship to be either scrapped (Australia, Monaco, France) or postponed (Bahrain, China, Vietnam, Netherlands, Spain, Azerbaijan, Canada).</p>


The French Grand Prix scheduled for June 28 was cancelled on Monday due to the coronavirus pandemic, organisers announced. "Given the evolution of the situation linked to the spread of the Covid-19 virus, the French Grand Prix takes note of the decisions announced by the French state, making it impossible to maintain our event," the race's managing director Eric Boullier said.

The French Grand Prix scheduled for June 28 was cancelled on Monday due to the coronavirus pandemic, organisers announced. "Given the evolution of the situation linked to the spread of the Covid-19 virus, the French Grand Prix takes note of the decisions announced by the French state, making it impossible to maintain our event," the race's managing director Eric Boullier said. The race at Le Castellet becomes the 10th leg of the decimated 2020 championship to be either scrapped (Australia, Monaco, France) or postponed (Bahrain, China, Vietnam, Netherlands, Spain, Azerbaijan, Canada).

French Formula One Grand Prix cancelled over coronavirus - organisers

<p>Everton said they are "appalled" at one of their players widely reported to be Italian international Moise Kean hosting a house party contravening the social distancing measures recommended by the British government due to the coronavirus pandemic.</p>

<p>The 20-year-old striker filmed himself hosting the party, the Daily Mirror reported.</p>

<p>The Mirror says Kean sent video clips to a private Snapchat group, with the footage showing female guests giving lap dances.</p>

<p>The caption on one picture was labelled 'quarantine clean'.</p>

<p>Everton issued a statement expressing their fury at the player's actions -- they did not name Kean -- on a day when the death toll in hospitals in the United Kingdom passed the 20,000 mark.</p>

<p>"Everton are appalled to learn of an incident in which a first-team player ignored government guidance and club policy in relation to the coronavirus crisis," read the club statement.</p>

<p>"The club has strongly expressed its disappointment to the player and made it clear that such actions are completely unacceptable."</p>

<p>The club added that all their staff had been informed of the government guidelines, which include one piece of exercise a day and to restrict oneself to social interaction with just those of the household.</p>

<p>"Everton has regularly stressed the importance of following all the government guidelines -- including rules and advice for inside and outside of the home -- through a series of official communications to all staff members, including players," the club said.</p>

<p>"The amazing people in the NHS deserve the utmost respect for their hard work and sacrifice. The best way to show them respect is by doing everything we can to protect them."</p>

<p>Kean, signed for £24 million ($29.7 million) from Juventus last year, is one of several Premier League players to be held to account for breaking the guidelines.</p>

<p>Manchester City and England defender Kyle Walker reportedly broke lockdown rules by hosting a party involving two sex workers.</p>

<p>Tottenham's Ivory Coast defender Serge Aurier and French midfielder Moussa Sissoko apologised for training together despite the coronavirus restrictions.</p>

<p>Their manager Jose Mourinho "accepted his actions were not in line with protocol" after being pictured holding a one-on-one training session in a park with midfielder Tanguy Ndombele.</p>


Everton said they are "appalled" at one of their players widely reported to be Italian international Moise Kean hosting a house party contravening the social distancing measures recommended by the British government due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Everton said they are "appalled" at one of their players widely reported to be Italian international Moise Kean hosting a house party contravening the social distancing measures recommended by the British government due to the coronavirus pandemic. The 20-year-old striker filmed himself hosting the party, the Daily Mirror reported. The Mirror says Kean sent video clips to a private Snapchat group, with the footage showing female guests giving lap dances. The caption on one picture was labelled 'quarantine clean'. Everton issued a statement expressing their fury at the player's actions -- they did not name Kean -- on a day when the death toll in hospitals in the United Kingdom passed the 20,000 mark. "Everton are appalled to learn of an incident in which a first-team player ignored government guidance and club policy in relation to the coronavirus crisis," read the club statement. "The club has strongly expressed its disappointment to the player and made it clear that such actions are completely unacceptable." The club added that all their staff had been informed of the government guidelines, which include one piece of exercise a day and to restrict oneself to social interaction with just those of the household. "Everton has regularly stressed the importance of following all the government guidelines -- including rules and advice for inside and outside of the home -- through a series of official communications to all staff members, including players," the club said. "The amazing people in the NHS deserve the utmost respect for their hard work and sacrifice. The best way to show them respect is by doing everything we can to protect them." Kean, signed for £24 million ($29.7 million) from Juventus last year, is one of several Premier League players to be held to account for breaking the guidelines. Manchester City and England defender Kyle Walker reportedly broke lockdown rules by hosting a party involving two sex workers. Tottenham's Ivory Coast defender Serge Aurier and French midfielder Moussa Sissoko apologised for training together despite the coronavirus restrictions. Their manager Jose Mourinho "accepted his actions were not in line with protocol" after being pictured holding a one-on-one training session in a park with midfielder Tanguy Ndombele.

Everton 'appalled' by Kean's house party in midst of virus lockdown

<p>The governor of New York raised the possibility Sunday of some major-league sports teams returning to the playing field or arena -- only with no fans in the stands.</p>

<p>Governor Andrew Cuomo said he had spoken to several sports team owners -- he did not name them, but New York's teams include the iconic Yankees baseball team, as well as football, hockey and basketball clubs -- and he speculated that for some it might make economic sense to play before empty stadiums.</p>

<p>Cuomo made the remarks during a daily briefing on the coronavirus in his state, the hardest hit in the US by the pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also sketched plans for slowly reopening the state's economy, saying&nbsp;manufacturing and construction firms may resume working on May 15, but any easing would first take place in the north of the state where the virus has been less a problem.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But he noted that weeks of enforced confinement have taken a psychological toll on New Yorkers, and said a resumption of sports competition could help.</p>

<p>"We want to bring sports back, so there's an activity that people can watch on TV," he told reporters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Cuomo said that while he was no expert on sports economics, some sports might earn enough in television revenues that they could make a go of it even without ticket sales.</p>

<h2>- 'Be creative' -</h2>

<p>"What sports can you do without an audience? What sports can you make work economically that you don't have to sell a seat in the stadium or in the arena?" he asked rhetorically.</p>

<p>Virtually all organized sports in the country -- professional and amateur -- have been halted since mid-March over concerns about the risks posed when large groups of fans crowd together.</p>

<p>There are a few exceptions: World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) has been authorized to operate in Florida, where it is classified as an essential service.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Several horse-racing tracks, in Florida and elsewhere, are also operating though before empty stands.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It remains unclear when the profusion of sports teams across this sports-crazed country will again be able to take to the field.</p>

<p>Cuomo said determining the financial calculus of returning to play was not part of his portfolio. But he urged team owners to "be creative -- try to figure it out."</p>

<p>Andrew Zimbalist, a specialist in sports economics at Smith College in Massachusetts, said that US major-league teams earn an average of at least 40 percent of their revenue from ticket sales.</p>

<p>But for minor-league teams and others, ticket sales account for a greater share of revenue since they earn much less from selling broadcast rights.</p>


The governor of New York raised the possibility Sunday of some major-league sports teams returning to the playing field or arena -- only with no fans in the stands.

The governor of New York raised the possibility Sunday of some major-league sports teams returning to the playing field or arena -- only with no fans in the stands. Governor Andrew Cuomo said he had spoken to several sports team owners -- he did not name them, but New York's teams include the iconic Yankees baseball team, as well as football, hockey and basketball clubs -- and he speculated that for some it might make economic sense to play before empty stadiums. Cuomo made the remarks during a daily briefing on the coronavirus in his state, the hardest hit in the US by the pandemic. He also sketched plans for slowly reopening the state's economy, saying manufacturing and construction firms may resume working on May 15, but any easing would first take place in the north of the state where the virus has been less a problem. But he noted that weeks of enforced confinement have taken a psychological toll on New Yorkers, and said a resumption of sports competition could help. "We want to bring sports back, so there's an activity that people can watch on TV," he told reporters. Cuomo said that while he was no expert on sports economics, some sports might earn enough in television revenues that they could make a go of it even without ticket sales. - 'Be creative' - "What sports can you do without an audience? What sports can you make work economically that you don't have to sell a seat in the stadium or in the arena?" he asked rhetorically. Virtually all organized sports in the country -- professional and amateur -- have been halted since mid-March over concerns about the risks posed when large groups of fans crowd together. There are a few exceptions: World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) has been authorized to operate in Florida, where it is classified as an essential service. Several horse-racing tracks, in Florida and elsewhere, are also operating though before empty stands. It remains unclear when the profusion of sports teams across this sports-crazed country will again be able to take to the field. Cuomo said determining the financial calculus of returning to play was not part of his portfolio. But he urged team owners to "be creative -- try to figure it out." Andrew Zimbalist, a specialist in sports economics at Smith College in Massachusetts, said that US major-league teams earn an average of at least 40 percent of their revenue from ticket sales. But for minor-league teams and others, ticket sales account for a greater share of revenue since they earn much less from selling broadcast rights.

NY governor wants to see sports teams return, even without fans

<p>Real Madrid star Gareth Bale says there should be no rush to restart La Liga during the coronavirus lockdown as the Spanish football federation plans tests and a return to training.</p>

<p>Testing players is being discussed with a view to completing the Liga season and thereby avoiding financial disaster, a source cose to La Liga told AFP on Thursday.</p>

<p>Bale said he wanted to get back into action but felt it wise to wait and see.</p>

<p>"Everyone wants to play football, but the most important thing is everyone stays safe, we don't want to come back too early. We need to make sure everything is done safely so we avoid the second wave of this virus," Bale told British broadcaster BT Sports.</p>

<p>The Bundesliga in Germany, where there have been far fewer coronavirus deaths, said on Thursday they are "ready" to restart on May 9 but needed government approval.</p>

<p>Rafael Ramos of the Spanish Association of Football Team Physicians said La Liga is planning to return to action in a series of stages.</p>

<p>"The idea according to La Liga is to test everyone on April 28 and 29," Ramos said on Spanish radio on Thursday.</p>

<p>He added that the tests would be repeated every three or four days.</p>

<p>La Liga president Javier Tebas said several alternatives for a return to action were being mulled with May 4 slated for the return to training.</p>

<p>"The scenarios we are looking at could see La Liga restart as early as 28-29 May, but could also be 6-7 June or even as late as June 28," Tebas said, calculating that the move could save Spanish clubs a billion euros in revenue if they complete La Liga and the European competitions.</p>

<h2>- Awaiting government approval -</h2>

<p>Whatever Tebas wants, Spain is under a severe lockdown quarantine and is reeling after 22,000 deaths from coronavirus in the country so far.</p>

<p>The Spanish players union (AFE) agree with Welsh winger Bale in his call for prudence.</p>

<p>"Ask yourself if this is really a good idea. Is it safe? isn't our main concern everybody's safety?," Diego Lopez the Espanyol goalkeeper said on Wednesday.</p>

<p>Eight Espanyol players are sick with Covid-19.</p>

<p>Barcelona and Spain midfielder Sergio Busquets was also sceptical on the proposed dates.</p>

<p>"I suppose it's workable, to train without getting too close to the other guys, showering at home, but meetings and travelling to a match would be difficult," said Busquets.</p>

<p>Others have been more defiant.</p>

<p>"I'm hearing stuff about May 4 or May 11. No way will I be going back to training (then), nor will I play. I'll tell you that straight right now," said Rafael Jimenez, a central defender at Liga 2 leaders Cadiz.</p>

<p>Athletic Bilbao player Ander Capa was more open to a return.</p>

<p>"I'm optimistic, I believe we'll get restarted and I hope by June we'll all be playing again," he told Radio Popular.</p>


Real Madrid star Gareth Bale says there should be no rush to restart La Liga during the coronavirus lockdown as the Spanish football federation plans tests and a return to training.

Real Madrid star Gareth Bale says there should be no rush to restart La Liga during the coronavirus lockdown as the Spanish football federation plans tests and a return to training. Testing players is being discussed with a view to completing the Liga season and thereby avoiding financial disaster, a source cose to La Liga told AFP on Thursday. Bale said he wanted to get back into action but felt it wise to wait and see. "Everyone wants to play football, but the most important thing is everyone stays safe, we don't want to come back too early. We need to make sure everything is done safely so we avoid the second wave of this virus," Bale told British broadcaster BT Sports. The Bundesliga in Germany, where there have been far fewer coronavirus deaths, said on Thursday they are "ready" to restart on May 9 but needed government approval. Rafael Ramos of the Spanish Association of Football Team Physicians said La Liga is planning to return to action in a series of stages. "The idea according to La Liga is to test everyone on April 28 and 29," Ramos said on Spanish radio on Thursday. He added that the tests would be repeated every three or four days. La Liga president Javier Tebas said several alternatives for a return to action were being mulled with May 4 slated for the return to training. "The scenarios we are looking at could see La Liga restart as early as 28-29 May, but could also be 6-7 June or even as late as June 28," Tebas said, calculating that the move could save Spanish clubs a billion euros in revenue if they complete La Liga and the European competitions. - Awaiting government approval - Whatever Tebas wants, Spain is under a severe lockdown quarantine and is reeling after 22,000 deaths from coronavirus in the country so far. The Spanish players union (AFE) agree with Welsh winger Bale in his call for prudence. "Ask yourself if this is really a good idea. Is it safe? isn't our main concern everybody's safety?," Diego Lopez the Espanyol goalkeeper said on Wednesday. Eight Espanyol players are sick with Covid-19. Barcelona and Spain midfielder Sergio Busquets was also sceptical on the proposed dates. "I suppose it's workable, to train without getting too close to the other guys, showering at home, but meetings and travelling to a match would be difficult," said Busquets. Others have been more defiant. "I'm hearing stuff about May 4 or May 11. No way will I be going back to training (then), nor will I play. I'll tell you that straight right now," said Rafael Jimenez, a central defender at Liga 2 leaders Cadiz. Athletic Bilbao player Ander Capa was more open to a return. "I'm optimistic, I believe we'll get restarted and I hope by June we'll all be playing again," he told Radio Popular.

Don't rush to restart La Liga, Bale warns

<p>India's limited-overs vice-captain Rohit Sharma says he has no idea "what's happening" with elusive former captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni, about whom he hasn't heard anything since India's semifinal exit from the World Cup last year.</p>

<p>With the IPL postponed indefinitely, the chances of an improbable India comeback look even more bleak for Dhoni, who has not played cricket for months now.</p>

<p>During an Instagram chat with former India spinner Harbhajan Singh, Rohit said that he has "no news about Dhoni".</p>

<p>"We don't know what's happening with him. We haven't heard any news about him. The last match of the World Cup was in July. From there, till now we haven't heard anything, I have no idea," Rohit said during the live chat.</p>

<p>In his typical tongue-in-cheek manner, Rohit said that anyone who wants to know about Dhoni should personally contact him.</p>

<p>"When MS Dhoni is not playing cricket, he goes out of radar. He goes underground. Whoever wants to know, you can directly go to him, you know he stays in Ranchi.</p>

<p>"You can't go now but after the lockdown, you take a car, bike or flight go to his place and ask him 'What are you going to do? Will you play or not?" he quipped.</p>

<p>Earlier India coach Ravi Shastri had said that IPL would have decided Dhoni's fate while legends like Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev feel that it is difficult for him to make a comeback after such a long self-imposed exile.</p>


India's limited-overs vice-captain Rohit Sharma says he has no idea "what's happening" with elusive former captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni, about whom he hasn't heard anything since India's semifinal exit from the World Cup last year.

India's limited-overs vice-captain Rohit Sharma says he has no idea "what's happening" with elusive former captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni, about whom he hasn't heard anything since India's semifinal exit from the World Cup last year. With the IPL postponed indefinitely, the chances of an improbable India comeback look even more bleak for Dhoni, who has not played cricket for months now. During an Instagram chat with former India spinner Harbhajan Singh, Rohit said that he has "no news about Dhoni". "We don't know what's happening with him. We haven't heard any news about him. The last match of the World Cup was in July. From there, till now we haven't heard anything, I have no idea," Rohit said during the live chat. In his typical tongue-in-cheek manner, Rohit said that anyone who wants to know about Dhoni should personally contact him. "When MS Dhoni is not playing cricket, he goes out of radar. He goes underground. Whoever wants to know, you can directly go to him, you know he stays in Ranchi. "You can't go now but after the lockdown, you take a car, bike or flight go to his place and ask him 'What are you going to do? Will you play or not?" he quipped. Earlier India coach Ravi Shastri had said that IPL would have decided Dhoni's fate while legends like Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev feel that it is difficult for him to make a comeback after such a long self-imposed exile.

Don't know what's happening with Dhoni, haven't heard since World Cup: Rohit Sharma

<p>As the entire cricketing fraternity celebrates Sachin Tendulkar’s 47th birthday, the 143-run knock by Master Blaster against Australia in the Coca Cola Cup, in Sharjah, in&nbsp;1998 has been voted as Tendulkar’s greatest innings in ODI cricket. The International Cricket Council (ICC) conducted a poll on the occasion of Tendulkar’s 47th birthday and after hours of voting, Tendulkar’s knock against Australia edged his cracking innings of 98 against Pakistan in the semi-final of ICC World Cup 2003. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Played 22 years ago, Tendulkar’s unforgettable ‘Desert Storm’ knock, in Sharjah, came in a losing cause but the Master Blaster made sure to hammer the Aussie bowling attack all over the park as he ended up slamming nine boundaries and five sixes.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ball-tampering-to-be-legalised-cricket-authorities-set-for-discussion-on-saliva-conondrum-in-wake-of-covid-19-294538" hreflang="en">Ball-tampering to be legalised? Cricket authorities set for discussion on saliva conondrum in wake of COVID-19</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">And we have a winner<br />
<br />
It was neck and neck, but in the end, Tendulkar’s unforgettable 'Desert Storm' knock of 143 in Sharjah has been voted by you as his greatest ODI innings <a href="https://t.co/as9pK6OnXt">pic.twitter.com/as9pK6OnXt</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1253633592774651904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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<p>Chasing 277 off 46 overs, India fell short by 26 runs but Tendulkar’s onslaught made sure India qualify to the final. Tendulkar followed it up with a thunderous 134 in the final to help India lift the Coca Cola Cup.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">DESERT STORM <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OnThisDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OnThisDay</a> in 1998, Sachin Tendulkar smashed a 143 off 131 balls against Australia to seal India's place in the final of the Sharjah Cup!<br />
<br />
Do you remember the battle between these legends? <a href="https://t.co/6SZVckZWwv">pic.twitter.com/6SZVckZWwv</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1252801805521731587?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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<p>Damien Fleming, one of the main-stay of the Aussie bowling attack that time, recalled Tendulkar’s knock as he said the Master Blaster was the best batsman he bowled during the 1998 tour of India.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wont-accept-rescheduling-of-asia-cup-for-ipl-2020-pcb-ceo-wasim-khan-294487" hreflang="en">Won't accept rescheduling of Asia Cup for IPL 2020: PCB CEO Wasim Khan</a></strong></p>

<p>“I remember halfway through the innings, they put ‘Happy 25th Birthday Sachin Tendulkar’ on the scoreboard. It drew a massive roar from the crowd and he seemed to kick on from there, taking more control. As he brought up his hundred, there was another massive cheer. The game drifted away from us. As we were losing, they put up ‘Happy 27th Birthday Damien Fleming.’ And it was booed by 15 thousand people,” Fleming told a leading daily.</p>

<p>“I am not sure how Sachin looked at his batting at that stage but that was the best batsman I bowled during the 1998 tour of India. He carried his form to Sharjah, scoring big hundreds. The final itself was amazing. We had a great team and scored a lot of runs in final,” Fleming remembered.</p>


As the entire cricketing fraternity celebrates Sachin Tendulkar’s 47th birthday, the 143-run knock by Master Blaster against Australia in the Coca Cola Cup, in Sharjah, in 1998 has been voted as Tendulkar’s greatest innings in ODI cricket.

As the entire cricketing fraternity celebrates Sachin Tendulkar’s 47th birthday, the 143-run knock by Master Blaster against Australia in the Coca Cola Cup, in Sharjah, in 1998 has been voted as Tendulkar’s greatest innings in ODI cricket. The International Cricket Council (ICC) conducted a poll on the occasion of Tendulkar’s 47th birthday and after hours of voting, Tendulkar’s knock against Australia edged his cracking innings of 98 against Pakistan in the semi-final of ICC World Cup 2003. Played 22 years ago, Tendulkar’s unforgettable ‘Desert Storm’ knock, in Sharjah, came in a losing cause but the Master Blaster made sure to hammer the Aussie bowling attack all over the park as he ended up slamming nine boundaries and five sixes. ALSO READ: Ball-tampering to be legalised? Cricket authorities set for discussion on saliva conondrum in wake of COVID-19 And we have a winner It was neck and neck, but in the end, Tendulkar’s unforgettable 'Desert Storm' knock of 143 in Sharjah has been voted by you as his greatest ODI innings pic.twitter.com/as9pK6OnXt — ICC (@ICC) April 24, 2020 × Chasing 277 off 46 overs, India fell short by 26 runs but Tendulkar’s onslaught made sure India qualify to the final. Tendulkar followed it up with a thunderous 134 in the final to help India lift the Coca Cola Cup. DESERT STORM #OnThisDay in 1998, Sachin Tendulkar smashed a 143 off 131 balls against Australia to seal India's place in the final of the Sharjah Cup! Do you remember the battle between these legends? pic.twitter.com/6SZVckZWwv — ICC (@ICC) April 22, 2020 × Damien Fleming, one of the main-stay of the Aussie bowling attack that time, recalled Tendulkar’s knock as he said the Master Blaster was the best batsman he bowled during the 1998 tour of India. ALSO READ: Won't accept rescheduling of Asia Cup for IPL 2020: PCB CEO Wasim Khan “I remember halfway through the innings, they put ‘Happy 25th Birthday Sachin Tendulkar’ on the scoreboard. It drew a massive roar from the crowd and he seemed to kick on from there, taking more control. As he brought up his hundred, there was another massive cheer. The game drifted away from us. As we were losing, they put up ‘Happy 27th Birthday Damien Fleming.’ And it was booed by 15 thousand people,” Fleming told a leading daily. “I am not sure how Sachin looked at his batting at that stage but that was the best batsman I bowled during the 1998 tour of India. He carried his form to Sharjah, scoring big hundreds. The final itself was amazing. We had a great team and scored a lot of runs in final,” Fleming remembered.

'Desert Storm' voted as Sachin Tendulkar's greatest ODI knock, edges out 98 vs Pakistan in 2003 WC

<p>UEFA on Thursday decided that 2019/20 campaigns would be settled on ‘sporting merit’ given the leagues can’t be finished on time. UEFA’s decision of deciding Champions League and Europa League spots on ‘sporting merit’ means the final standings could be determined by the results thus far.</p>

<p>Hence, Liverpool, who are currently, 25 points clear in the Premier League standings, could be crowned champions even if league matches can’t be played in near future.</p>

<p>UEFA wants every major league to finish their respective campaigns but is clear that it may not be possible if governments place an official order to prohibit sporting events and gatherings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The European sporting body has taken ‘null and void’ option off the table as final standings must be “based on sporting merit in the 2019/20 domestic competitions”.</p>

<p>UEFA has a plan-B in place which states that the sporting body prefers leagues to complete the season with a different format suggesting a play-off system to determine promotion and relegation candidates, and teams for European competitions.</p>

<h2>Here’s the Premier League table on “sporting merit” for the season 2019/20:</h2>

<p><em><strong>1. Liverpool - 2.83 points per game</strong></em></p>

<p>2. Manchester City - 2.04</p>

<p>3. Leicester City - 1.83</p>

<p>4. Chelsea - 1.66</p>

<p>5. Manchester United - 1.55</p>

<p>6. Sheffield United - 1.54</p>

<p>7. Wolverhampton Wanderers - 1.48</p>

<p>8. Arsenal - 1.43</p>

<p>9. Spurs - 1.41</p>

<p>10. Burnley - 1.34</p>

<p>11. Crystal Palace - 1.34</p>

<p>12. Everton - 1.28</p>

<p>13. Newcastle United - 1.21</p>

<p>14. Southampton - 1.17</p>

<p>15. Brighton - 1.00</p>

<p>16. West Ham United - 0.93</p>

<p>17. Watford - 0.93</p>

<p>18. Bournemouth - 0.93</p>

<p>19. Aston Villa - 0.89</p>

<p>20. Norwich City - 0.72<br />
&nbsp;</p>


UEFA on Thursday decided that 2019/20 campaigns would be settled on ‘sporting merit’ given the leagues can’t be finished on time. UEFA’s decision of deciding Champions League and Europa League spots on ‘sporting merit’ means the final standings could be determined by the results thus far.

UEFA on Thursday decided that 2019/20 campaigns would be settled on ‘sporting merit’ given the leagues can’t be finished on time. UEFA’s decision of deciding Champions League and Europa League spots on ‘sporting merit’ means the final standings could be determined by the results thus far. Hence, Liverpool, who are currently, 25 points clear in the Premier League standings, could be crowned champions even if league matches can’t be played in near future. UEFA wants every major league to finish their respective campaigns but is clear that it may not be possible if governments place an official order to prohibit sporting events and gatherings. The European sporting body has taken ‘null and void’ option off the table as final standings must be “based on sporting merit in the 2019/20 domestic competitions”. UEFA has a plan-B in place which states that the sporting body prefers leagues to complete the season with a different format suggesting a play-off system to determine promotion and relegation candidates, and teams for European competitions. Here’s the Premier League table on “sporting merit” for the season 2019/20: 1. Liverpool - 2.83 points per game 2. Manchester City - 2.04 3. Leicester City - 1.83 4. Chelsea - 1.66 5. Manchester United - 1.55 6. Sheffield United - 1.54 7. Wolverhampton Wanderers - 1.48 8. Arsenal - 1.43 9. Spurs - 1.41 10. Burnley - 1.34 11. Crystal Palace - 1.34 12. Everton - 1.28 13. Newcastle United - 1.21 14. Southampton - 1.17 15. Brighton - 1.00 16. West Ham United - 0.93 17. Watford - 0.93 18. Bournemouth - 0.93 19. Aston Villa - 0.89 20. Norwich City - 0.72

Liverpool set to be crowned Premier League champions as UEFA removes 'null and void' option

<p>Andres Iniesta has described his struggle with depression while playing for Barcelona, which his mother says was a "bottomless pit" that caused her 25-year-old son to ask to sleep with his parents.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Iniesta recalls his experience with the illness in a Rakuten TV documentary, 'Andres Iniesta - The Unexpected Hero', which was released on Thursday and covers his move to Japanese side Vissel Kobe in 2018.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After winning the Champions League under Pep Guardiola in 2009, Iniesta was battling injury and then hit by the death of his friend Dani Jarque, the 26-year-old Espanyol defender who suffered a heart attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The days pass and you realise you're not improving, you don't feel good, you're not yourself. Everything clouds over and goes dark," Iniesta said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Jarque's death, Iniesta added: "That was like a body blow, something powerful that knocked me down again and I was pretty low, clearly because I wasn't very well."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Iniesta's depression is described by those closest to him, including his mother Maria Lujan and father Jose Antonio.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I noticed he wasn't well one night when we were sleeping downstairs and he came down and said, 'mum can I sleep here with you?'" Maria said. "Then the world came down on my head."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jose Antonio said: "Our 25 year-old son coming down at midnight and wanting to sleep with his parents means he can't be well. He said, 'I'm not well dad'. I said, 'what's wrong?' 'I don't know, I don't feel well.'"&nbsp;</p>

<p>Iniesta's father admitted he thought his son might have to take a break from football. "At one stage I thought he would have to stop because the most important thing was him," said Jose Antonio.</p>

<p>Iniesta began having sessions with psychologist Inma Puig, who said the Spaniard's recovery owed much to those around him, including Guardiola.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Guardiola said this is the first time I've been in this situation as a coach," said Puig. "I remember he said, 'the most important thing now is Andres, the person not the player'."</p>

<p>"They're people and this is a very human thing which affects millions of people around the world," said Guardiola. "They have to know we are there for them."</p>

<p>"Guardiola tried to get him out of that bottomless pit he was in," said Iniesta's mother Maria.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Iniesta came through Barcelona's La Masia academy and went on to win nine La Liga titles and four Champions Leagues with the club.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also lifted the World Cup with Spain in 2010, after scoring the winning goal against the Netherlands in the final.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite receiving a hero's farewell from Barca, Iniesta hinted his relationship with the board influenced his decision to go to Japan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"People at the club never imagined I could leave," Iniesta said. "It's like everything, in relationships if you don't discuss things at the right time there comes a time when there's no way back."&nbsp;</p>


Andres Iniesta has described his struggle with depression while playing for Barcelona, which his mother says was a "bottomless pit" that caused her 25-year-old son to ask to sleep with his parents.

Andres Iniesta has described his struggle with depression while playing for Barcelona, which his mother says was a "bottomless pit" that caused her 25-year-old son to ask to sleep with his parents. Iniesta recalls his experience with the illness in a Rakuten TV documentary, 'Andres Iniesta - The Unexpected Hero', which was released on Thursday and covers his move to Japanese side Vissel Kobe in 2018. After winning the Champions League under Pep Guardiola in 2009, Iniesta was battling injury and then hit by the death of his friend Dani Jarque, the 26-year-old Espanyol defender who suffered a heart attack. "The days pass and you realise you're not improving, you don't feel good, you're not yourself. Everything clouds over and goes dark," Iniesta said. On Jarque's death, Iniesta added: "That was like a body blow, something powerful that knocked me down again and I was pretty low, clearly because I wasn't very well." Iniesta's depression is described by those closest to him, including his mother Maria Lujan and father Jose Antonio. "I noticed he wasn't well one night when we were sleeping downstairs and he came down and said, 'mum can I sleep here with you?'" Maria said. "Then the world came down on my head." Jose Antonio said: "Our 25 year-old son coming down at midnight and wanting to sleep with his parents means he can't be well. He said, 'I'm not well dad'. I said, 'what's wrong?' 'I don't know, I don't feel well.'" Iniesta's father admitted he thought his son might have to take a break from football. "At one stage I thought he would have to stop because the most important thing was him," said Jose Antonio. Iniesta began having sessions with psychologist Inma Puig, who said the Spaniard's recovery owed much to those around him, including Guardiola. "Guardiola said this is the first time I've been in this situation as a coach," said Puig. "I remember he said, 'the most important thing now is Andres, the person not the player'." "They're people and this is a very human thing which affects millions of people around the world," said Guardiola. "They have to know we are there for them." "Guardiola tried to get him out of that bottomless pit he was in," said Iniesta's mother Maria. Iniesta came through Barcelona's La Masia academy and went on to win nine La Liga titles and four Champions Leagues with the club. He also lifted the World Cup with Spain in 2010, after scoring the winning goal against the Netherlands in the final. Despite receiving a hero's farewell from Barca, Iniesta hinted his relationship with the board influenced his decision to go to Japan. "People at the club never imagined I could leave," Iniesta said. "It's like everything, in relationships if you don't discuss things at the right time there comes a time when there's no way back."

'Everything clouds over and goes dark' - Iniesta on depression at Barcelona

<p>Germany's ministry of labour wants footballers to wear masks as protection against the coronavirus if Angela Merkel's government gives the green light for the Bundesliga to return next month.</p>

<p>The German Football League (DFL) confirmed Thursday that they are ready for the Bundesliga to resume from May 9, albeit without fans in stadiums and with strict player hygiene measures in place.</p>

<p>The final decision will be made by German Chancellor Merkel and state leaders, who are due to meet in Berlin on Thursday.</p>

<p>Germany has been less affected by the pandemic, but currently has 5,321 deaths due to the virus.</p>

<p>According to magazine Spiegel, the Federal Ministry for Labour has drafted safety guidelines which include a recommendation players wear a mask which would "not slip in sprints, headers and challenges".</p>

<p>"Should the masks slip, the game must immediately be stopped", according to the draft, and because the masks would get wet fast due to exertion, they should be "replaced every 15 minutes at the latest".</p>

<p>Germany's team doctor Tim Meyer, part of the task force looking into how the German league can return, is sceptical.</p>

<p>"There have also been suggestions such as players should keep their distance in the free-kick wall," Meyer told the German press agency DPA.</p>

<p>"But then the spectators would no longer perceive football as authentic.</p>

<p>"If players played with masks, I don't think that would be accepted."</p>

<p>Another suggestion in the ministry guidelines is that each team be quarantined in a hotel for the duration of the season amid hopes it can be completed in Germany by June 30.</p>

<p>Players have already given a mixed response to the idea of being isolated for the nine remaining games of the season.</p>

<p>"I personally would find it extremely difficult to spend the next few weeks in a hotel and not be able to see my family," Eintracht Frankfurt defender Danny da Costa told reporters.</p>

<p>However, Bayern Munich forward Thomas Mueller said being placed in quarantine may be the only way to get the season finished.</p>

<p>"It is quite clear that football would submit to almost all the rules necessary to play," Mueller told magazine Sport Bild.</p>


Germany's ministry of labour wants footballers to wear masks as protection against the coronavirus if Angela Merkel's government gives the green light for the Bundesliga to return next month.

Germany's ministry of labour wants footballers to wear masks as protection against the coronavirus if Angela Merkel's government gives the green light for the Bundesliga to return next month. The German Football League (DFL) confirmed Thursday that they are ready for the Bundesliga to resume from May 9, albeit without fans in stadiums and with strict player hygiene measures in place. The final decision will be made by German Chancellor Merkel and state leaders, who are due to meet in Berlin on Thursday. Germany has been less affected by the pandemic, but currently has 5,321 deaths due to the virus. According to magazine Spiegel, the Federal Ministry for Labour has drafted safety guidelines which include a recommendation players wear a mask which would "not slip in sprints, headers and challenges". "Should the masks slip, the game must immediately be stopped", according to the draft, and because the masks would get wet fast due to exertion, they should be "replaced every 15 minutes at the latest". Germany's team doctor Tim Meyer, part of the task force looking into how the German league can return, is sceptical. "There have also been suggestions such as players should keep their distance in the free-kick wall," Meyer told the German press agency DPA. "But then the spectators would no longer perceive football as authentic. "If players played with masks, I don't think that would be accepted." Another suggestion in the ministry guidelines is that each team be quarantined in a hotel for the duration of the season amid hopes it can be completed in Germany by June 30. Players have already given a mixed response to the idea of being isolated for the nine remaining games of the season. "I personally would find it extremely difficult to spend the next few weeks in a hotel and not be able to see my family," Eintracht Frankfurt defender Danny da Costa told reporters. However, Bayern Munich forward Thomas Mueller said being placed in quarantine may be the only way to get the season finished. "It is quite clear that football would submit to almost all the rules necessary to play," Mueller told magazine Sport Bild.

Calls for footballers to wear masks if Bundesliga returns

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Subhayan Chakraborty

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