As the Covid-19 pandemic continues to cause mass disruption around the world, the United States has now surpassed China in the number of confirmed cases that it is seeing. With over 500,000 cases in the country, there are several states now on lockdown to prevent further spread of the virus. However, as with many other countries around the world, this has seen the cancellation of sporting events as well as a profound effect on the economy.
With over 250,000 cases in New York alone there are many wondering just how much damage he Covid-19 outbreak will do to the state’s economy as many businesses are forced to close their doors for the first time in decades. Not only this, but the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the virus has begun to take its toll on the US economy with over half of the US population now in lockdown.
Cancellation Of Sports Around The World
Though there is a vast amount of uncertainty for several businesses at this time, there is no denying that sports is by far one of the most affected industries during the Covid-19 outbreak. With the worldwide suspension or cancellation of international soccer leagues, the NBA and MLB along with many other American sporting events, everyone is feeling the pinch.
One of the most recent events to be postponed is of course the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympic Games which were set to take place this year. This was cancelled in March following growing pressure by almost all participating countries that were wary of competing.
The Support Of Celebrities Around The World
Despite there being several season postponements and cancellations, numerous celebrities are coming out in support of the stay at home and save lives initiative. With a number of the world’s leading sports stars hosting online video fundraisers as well as many showing off their own workouts on Instagram. Check social media to keep up with the news and see what your favorite superstars are up to during this time.
One of the most recent players to show off their training routine is Mets Minor League player Tim Tebow. Showcasing his exercise regime on Instagram, he has got many fans excited for a new season especially with the Mets appearing to be the bookies favorite.
With a strong squad and many of them still training even during downtime, many are expecting the Mets to come out swinging when the season begins again. Though there is a vast amount of uncertainty surrounding when this will be, the players are ready and waiting to get the go-ahead.
Ongoing Disruption To The Sporting Industry
With the ongoing covid-19 lockdown comes a vast amount of uncertainty for sporting promoters in the US. This is because popular sports such as wrestling take place behind closed doors. This has not only changed the entire atmosphere of some sporting events, but it has also led to a loss of revenue in some cases. Though we were fortunate to have the Super Bowl at the beginning of the year. Covid’19 presents issues for the NFL Draft ahead of the 2020 season.
Though new signings can, in fact, take place during this time, restrictions on travelling meaning that no medicals can be conducted until travel bans are lifted. Though this is still promising for the developments of the 2020 roster, this does mean that any contracts negotiated during this time cannot be finalized as a medical is required therefore causing further disruption at the beginning of the season.
With this in mind, the effects of Covid-19 are something that is being felt around the entire sports world during this difficult time. However, as lockdown continues and the number of cases begins to plateau, we may well begin to see live sports making a return to our TV’s again at some point but there’s no telling when that will be.