The O-ring is scheduled to be held between July 19-25 in Uppsala. But whether the classic multi-day competition can be conducted is highly uncertain at present. In April, a final decision will be made.

- We are entering a stage where costs are starting to be taken and there must not be such a risk that it jeopardizes the business when it comes to the orientation movement's money. It is also the life and health of officials. They gather during the spring in large groups where they work with the O-ring. You should expect them to do the job with loyalty while being concerned about their health, says Jens Lindquist, associate director of the O-ring.

Tough prospects

Today, only 50 people can gather at a public event in Sweden because of the risk of infection. Being able to arrange the O-ring with about 18,000 participants, their relatives and also functionaries - is currently highly uncertain.

- We sit together with the big exercise races in weekly meetings. The outlook is not so good for any event that brings together international and national participants. When you look at the forecast and the authorities give uncertain forecasts, it is clear that we all live under uncertainty, says Jens Lundquist.

"Would be tough"

Each year, the O-ring has a turnover of approximately SEK 35 million, with the surplus going to Orientation Sweden. If the arrangement cannot be implemented, it would have major consequences, Lundquist says.

- The O-ring is the flagship both emotionally for the orientation movement and what often runs activities in the associations. It is something you gather around that gives you hope, joy and dreams for the season. Then of course it is a big economy and it would be tough with a set O-ring.

It has already been clear that Tiomila, which was to be arranged in Upplands-Bro in early May and has so far more than 1,000 registered teams in the different competition classes, has been postponed due to the spread of the corona virus. The hope is that the enriched relay will be able to be decided elsewhere this autumn, due to already planned military exercises in the competition area later this year.

When it comes to the World Cup, which is scheduled to be decided in July, a message will come this week.