In light of the current evolution of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Bureau of the FIFA Council has approved FIFA's Return to Football - International Match Protocol, which FIFA today shared with its 211 member associations and the six confederations.
FIFA's Return to Football - International Match Protocol is the result of an extensive consultation process with the six confederations and stakeholder representatives. It provides important safeguards for the health and safety of players and delegates while simultaneously facilitating a return to play and the provision of exemptions by local authorities, where relevant.
The FIFA protocol allows for the use of equivalent protocols, such as those that have already been developed and successfully implemented by confederations in international matches to date.
A dedicated FIFA team has been established to provide hands-on assistance with, support for and coordination in the implementation of the required measures and safeguards for all international matches.
Measures to prevent the spread or reintroduction of COVID-19
In line with the recommendations issued by the World Health Organization, FIFA's Return to Football - International Match Protocol defines a set of preventative measures to be implemented in the footprint of matches and all official sites:
- Strict monitoring and testing of players, delegates and officials
- Hand hygiene
- Respiratory hygiene
- Physical distancing
- Cleaning and hygiene regimes
- Risk communication and awareness
