Official Statement of the World Federation for Company Sport

Dear Presidents,
Dear Sportsmen,
Dear Friends,

Due to the health crisis related to the COVID-19 Coronavirus epidemic, the question of organizing and maintaining the World Company Sport Games in Athens from 17 to 21 June 2020 arises.

The world of sport has, by tradition and in essence, always followed the rules and set an example in many circumstances. We have therefore always been used to make our choices and decisions in a calm and timely manner.

At that time, we have in fact no instructions or official recommendation from the competent Greek, European or other authorities to cancel this event. However, it does not seem reasonable for us to think that the situation will return to normal before the summer, the period when the Olympic Games will take place also.

This is the reason why, in agreement with our Greek friends in charge of the organization, we propose today to postpone the World Company Sport Games to the end of the summer or to a later date which will be specified to you very soon. The Greek organizing committee, in charge of the event, will come back to you very quickly to specify the practical details.

Until then, we urge you not to make a hasty decision by canceling your registrations but to simply prepare for a postponement. In addition, the situation is constantly evolving, and the truth of the day is not necessarily the truth of the next day. It seems relevant to wait a few days to make the best decision which will always be guided by the safety and health of athletes and their accompanying persons : it is our duty and our commitment.
Furthermore, the Games will never take place if the organizing committee does not receive clear and unambiguous authorization from the local authorities on the one hand, without the validation of the European authorities on the other hand, and without a global and comprehensive analysis of the situation at the right time.

We thank you in advance for your understanding and wish you all a lot of courage and a sense of responsibility during this difficult time for all.

Didier Bessyere,
World Federation for Company Sport President