New York (AFP)
The Professional Football League (NFL) has given up on relocating its scheduled regular season games to London and Mexico City due to logistical problems linked to the coronavirus pandemic, it announced on Monday.
The court said the meetings would be held in the United States, according to "consistent protocols that prioritize the well-being of players, staff and fans".
One match was scheduled at Azteca Stadium in Mexico City and four more in London - two at Wembley and two at Tottenham Stadium.
"After careful analysis, we think the decision to play all of our games here this season is the right one," said NFL executive vice president Christopher Halpin, adding: "We look forward to returning to these two country during the 2021 season. "
"The many NFL fans in London, the United Kingdom and Europe will obviously be disappointed by this news, but this decision was the right one to ensure the safety of everyone involved in the sport," said the mayor of London. Sadiq Khan.
The Arizona Cardinals, Atlanta Falcons, Jacksonville Jaguars and Miami Dolphins, who were to "receive" on the occasion of these delocalized meetings, will organize them on their own stadium.
Despite the uncertainty over a possible resumption of professional sport in the United States, hit by the Covid-19 pandemic, the NFL plans, according to some media, to announce this week its full schedule for the 2020 regular season. Which would include 16 days and would start as planned on September 10.
© 2020 AFP