Football: What will be the Covid protocols for the 2021-22 season?

Between vaccines and PCR tests, the players of the five major European Championships remain under high health vigilance, without however being subject to compulsory vaccination. Here is the update on the protocols in France, England, Spain, Germany and Italy before the start of the season.

France

In its protocol for the organization of matches published at the end of July, the Professional Football League (LFP) is setting up a sort of health pass for the resumption of Ligue 1, without however naming it that way. But players are required to present either proof of a complete vaccination schedule, a negative PCR test carried out in the three days before the match, or a positive PCR test attesting to recovery from Covid-19 within six months. In the event of a positive test, a 10-day isolation is planned, with a resumption of competition “at best on the 18th day“. Matches can be postponed if a club has fewer than 20 players, including a goalkeeper, with one of the three health pass options, from a list of 30 players.

England

In England vaccination is not compulsory for Premier League players, but “encouraged“A spokesperson for the English championship told AFP. The vaccination obligation for all players and spectators from October 1 is being studied by the government, but deemed inapplicable by several clubs.

At first, as the championship kicks off on August 13, players and staff will still have to get tested twice a week, but with quick tests. PCR tests will therefore no longer be necessary.

Spain

In Spain, the vaccination of players is not compulsory but according to the press, most teams have made sure to vaccinate their squad.

La Liga also requires four antigenic tests per player during the week before each match, the 4th of which must be carried out on the morning of the match or just before the trip for the visiting team. The stadiums will open to 40% of their capacity.

Germany

In Germany, the German Football League (DFL) recommends vaccination of players. From now on, players who have already been vaccinated or those who have recovered from Covid-19 will no longer have to be tested regularly. Players are free not to be vaccinated but will therefore have to be tested at least twice a week via a PCR test. To avoid these regular tests, players will need to show proof of vaccination (double dose older than 14 days) via their electronic or cure (less than six months) “vaccine pass”.

These arrangements already started last weekend with the new season of the second division. During this first day, several players encouraged people to be vaccinated, by rolling up the sleeve of their jersey when celebrating a goal for example.

Italy

At the end of July, the Italian Federation (FIGC) introduced the obligation for Serie A players to have a “green pass”, imposed elsewhere throughout Italy from August 6 to access closed places. This “green pass” is issued from the first dose of vaccine, in the event of recovery from Covid-19 in the previous six months, or in the event of a negative test carried out within 48 hours.

Players who do not have one can be sanctioned with suspension, also exposing their club to heavy penalties, between fines, ban on transfers or even penalty points or relegation. FIGC President Gabriele Gravina has also announced that he is considering making vaccination compulsory for players.

Players are still subject to a strict health protocol: those who are not fully vaccinated or who have not recovered from Covid-19 within six months must undergo a weekly test until the start of the season, then 48 hours before each match when it begins.