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Sports Begin to Return: Bundesliga, NASCAR, and UFC

After months in lockdown, sports are finally beginning to return. From NASCAR to the Bundesliga, to the UFC, we are about to see a busy May sports wise!

Many Sports Are Returning After Lockdown, Some Already Have

The world of sports was one of the worst affected by the recent lockdown. For all the downsides, though many sporting organizations found alternatives and carried on. And, as we are in the third month of the global pandemic, the world is slowly returning back to normal. Specifically, sports events are back on track. Just last weekend, UFC 249, the first major sports event in a long time, took place. Dana White does seem to play a bit of roulette with the schedule after the UFC has had to change venues and dates on multiple occasions, but UFC 249 took place nevertheless. But speaking of roulette, there are ways to play online roulette for GBP without disappointing sports fans around the world. And for the real sports fans among you, it’s time to take a closer at what sports are coming back this week or soon enough!

UFC Is Back on May 16

If you are craving sports action this weekend, don’t you worry! There will be plenty. We will start with UFC on ESPN: Overeem vs. Harris which will feature five main card fights and six prelim fights making for a very good overall selection of fights.

The main pair, Alistair Overseen versus Walt Harris will be throwing down in the heavyweight division and definitely attract good viewership, or so White hopes. With so many sports makings a return this weekend, though, there’s no telling how much interest the event will see.

In any event, MMA fans seem to be loyal and this will certainly translate into high pay-per-click and viewership numbers. Now, seeing more MMA and UFC definitely sounds good, but hold on, because there are more events down the pipeline.

NASCAR Returns for Real on May 17

On May 17, the NASCAR Cup Series race at Darlington will give fans what they have craved for months now – real NASCAR race. Even though the eNASCAR iRacing Pro Invitational Series did quite a few things right, nothing can quite replace the real sport. Now, this is definitely good news for motorsports, and fans will surely appreciate watching real NASCAR instead of a simulation.

However, the event will continue behind “closed doors,” in the sense that fans cannot attend an actual race track and share in the atmosphere. Yet, FOX has proven itself as capable of broadcast a quality production no matter what the circumstances.

The Bundesliga Kicks off on the Weekend

Another huge announcement for the sports world is the return of the Bundesliga 1 & 2. The competition is definitely one of the most impressive out there and it will definitely help the world return to normality.

Now, footballers will have to adapt and play in empty stadiums, which does feel a little awkward – after all, what’s a sport without the fans? In most cases, just a couple of strangers kicking a ball around without much point to it.

But knowing there are millions of people watching from their homes is definitely something worthwhile. No to mention that with many football championships not quite ready to return, people around the globe will have the opportunity to develop a new appreciation for the German football championship.

The Bundesliga is not alone, though, as both La Liga and the English Premier League are in very serious talks to return and start broadcasting games. It’s true that we will all have to wait a while before we can flock back to the stadiums, but as things stand, that is not entirely necessary when you think about it – not right away at least.

In the meantime, don’t forget to tune in and watch your favorite sports competition on the telly!

Horse racing returns in Germany and France

Horse racing returns this week in both Germany and France, there are no attendances.

Non US Golfers to quarantine before PGA Tour commences

BBC Sport report that non US golfers will have to quarantine in America before the PGA tour commences next month. The news was confirmed as the PGA Tour confirmed it’s plans for a return to the fairways.

There has been no golf since March 12th. However, 25 golfers are due to play in the Charles Schwab Colonial event. BBC report that some of these golfers include Matt Fitzpatrick, Francesco Molinari and Tommy Fleetwood. These golfers will need to quarantine for 14 days after arriving in the country. Andy Levinson, PGA tour administrator said about the quarantine, “That is currently in place,”. “It is likely to continue, and so it is imperative that those constituents that need to come back in the United States do so at least two weeks prior to our return to competition.

The PGA tour remain highly confident that action will resume for in Texas on June 11th. Tyler Dennis chief of operations at the PGA tour said, “We’ve created what we believe is an extremely comprehensive health and safety plan,”. He continued, “But just to be perfectly clear, we’re not going to play if we can’t do it in a safe and healthy environment.”

Players will also be subject to coronavirus testing on the PGA tour. The process begins with questions on their health and then temperatures will be taken. “Layering a thermal reading with a questionnaire, you have a very good chance of detecting a high percentage of the people who are at risk,” said Levinson in a conference call outlining the tour’s plans.

The first really big event on the PGA tour card is the US PGA Championship in August. There are fears of this event having to be moved out of Harding Park due to the lockdown rules.

All going well golf will resume on June 11th.

Bundesliga to return this weekend

The German Bundesliga will return this weekend which will see a return to soccer in Europe. It will be in the spotlight globally this weekend as fans who have been starved at top flight football will now be able to have something to watch.

It was announced last week that the German football league would resume. Their first and second divisions from Saturday will resume action after a two month suspension. However, strict guidelines will be required, obviously this means stadiums will almost empty. Only 300 essential staff will be able to attend, such as tv crew and some press. Furthermore, players have been told not to spit. They have also been told to celebrate in group or touch hands. RTE Sport report that some clubs in fact will use music and cardboard cutouts of fans to enhance atmosphere.

The Bundesliga have said they wish to complete the season by June 30th. However, they are aware of the risk of another suspension if there are large number of cases among players. The league have said a further suspension would hurt clubs financially, stating another suspension would be “disastrous” for both league and teams. The Premier League, La Liga and Serie A have no yet resumed so the Bundesliga will become the big league with many people looking for some soccer to watch.

Bayern Munich, who are looking for their 8th league title in a row will play away to FC Union Berlin. Borussia Dortmund will entertain Schalke 04. The CEO of Bayern Munich Rummenigge said, “With the Bundesliga as the only league to be broadcast on TV, I expect we will have an audience of a billion.”

Moreover, It is great finally to have something to watch for sports fanatics. It is also great for those in the area of sports journalist. It is something to cover in this difficult time with no sport on. All the action can be viewed on various channels over the weekend with some games also showing on BT Sport. So, if you want your fix of soccer this weekend be sure to watch the Bundesliga.

Covid 19 Advisory Group discuss GAA roadmap plans

The GAA’s dedicated Advisory Group have met to discuss an outline on a GAA roadmap of plans. The group will advise the GAA on return to play protocols.

According to RTE Sport, the group met on Monday night to discuss procedures and opening of GAA grounds and property. It is expected the committee will now meet on a regular basis. It will recommend a pathway which will be suited to the amateur status of the GAA and culture. The advisory group are aware the effect of closed club grounds on rural Ireland. In a statement they said, “When the time comes the GAA Management Committee will decide when to go back to training and games and also how we will go back,”.

It continued,“The Covid-19 Advisory Group has been established to advise the GAA from a health and welfare perspective. “The remit will centre on return-to-play protocols around training, playing and safely facilitating spectators – when that times comes.  “There are other specific areas that need to be carefully looked at too.

The spokesperson said that rules will have to be drawn up regarding the opening of ball alleys and handball alleys. “For example, we may need specific rules to be drawn up for the convention of opening up ball-alleys or handball courts, and the committee will be invaluable in drawing up documents for such scenarios.”

An update is expected on May 18th. However, an imminent return to play is unlikely according to the spokesperson. “Certainly, no-one could envisage any imminent return to play as the downward movement of the Covid-19 rate of infection is not enough at the moment.

RTE Sport also report that they expect the committee to announce a phased approach to players returning to training. Just like current guidelines for soccer in Italy and Spain where training in large groups is forbidden I would expect something similar to occur here. It will likely start of smaller groups, before progressing to large group non contact training and then full training.

RTE also report that the Covid 19 advisory committee will provide advice and safety details on how everyone involved in sport will be able engage safely. Furthermore, match advice will also be given, as will the use of facilities and stadium preparation. The committee itself is made up some medical experts with GAA experience, admin from Croke Park and representatives from the GPA and ladies football and camogie associations.

Earlier last week, it was reported that 57% of club players would return to training if a vaccine was in place. However, it is looking likely a vaccine won’t be in place till next year.

Vettel set to leave Ferrari

Sebastian Vettel is set to leave Ferrari at the end of the season after a mutual agreement was made between the two according to BBC Sport.

The German joined Ferrari in 2015 but by his standards has not reached the heights than he did when with Red Bull Racing. Vettel was crowned World Champions four times when with Red Bull.  Team principal of Ferrari, Mattia Binotto stated, “There was no specific reason that led to this decision, apart from the common and amicable belief that the time had come to go our separate ways in order to reach our respective objectives.”

Binotto in the statement which was released on the Ferrari website said that Vettel is already part of Scuderia history, he said, “Sebastian is already part of the Scuderia history, with his 14 Grands Prix wins making him the third most successful driver for the team, while he is also the one who has scored the most points with us”.

Meanwhile Vettel has come out and said that financial matters haven’t played a part in the decision. He said, “Financial matters have played no part in this joint decision. That’s not the way I think when it comes to making certain choices and it never will be”. He continued, “What’s been happening in these past few months has led many of us to reflect on what are our real priorities in life”. One needs to use one’s imagination and to adopt a new approach to a situation that has changed. I myself will take the time I need to reflect on what really matters when it comes to my future.”

It remains to be seen who will now become the replacement for Vettel. BBC Sport report that Carlos Sainz of Spain, who is currently driving for McLaren, is linked to taking over the hotseat. Lewis Hamilton is out of contract with Mercedes at the end of the 2020 season. However he has signalled his intention to stay with them so he can be ruled out. I expect an announcement on this in the coming days.

 

Murphy and Addison sign new deals

Ulster pair Jordi Murphy and Will Addison have signed new deals with Ulster Rugby. The contract extensions are for a further two years as the province also confirmed their squad for next season.

Murphy has been playing at Ulster since leaving Leinster in 2018. Will Addison played Sale Sharks, but he moved to Ulster also in 2018. The contract of both players was due to expire over the summer but they have now put pen to paper which is sure to exit Ulster supporters.

As I previously mentioned the province also confirmed their squad for the new season. Jacob Stockdale, Matt Rea and Sean Reidy will all remain at the province. Stewart Moore has committed to a three year deal, he will graduate from the Ulster academy to be a development player, before been upgraded to the senior squad. Meanwhile, Ian Madigan comes into the squad on a one year contract. Madigan comes to Ulster after playing with Bristol Bears. Alby Mathewson will also return on a one year deal, having played with Munster.

Dan McFarland, head coach at Ulster rugby said, “Our desire to build on the successes of this season to-date is evidenced in our strong investment in talent from the current squad. Although it’s an uncertain time for rugby, and all sport, I am confident our selection will stand us in good stead for when we are able to safely start the new season”.

McFarland also thanked players that have retired or moved clubs he said, “I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the players who are moving on from the squad. This includes Clive Ross, who earned 73 caps since joining the province on a development contract in 2014, along with 21-capped Angus Kernohan, and Zack McCall.

Ulster Rugby 2020/21 Squad:

Players developed through the Abbey Insurance Academy or Ulster club system are marked with * and development players are in italics.

Will Addison

John Andrew*

Robert Baloucoune*

Billy Burns

Sam Carter

Marcell Coetzee

John Cooney

Angus Curtis*

Matt Faddes

Craig Gilroy*

Iain Henderson*

Rob Herring

James Hume*

Bill Johnston

Greg Jones*

Ross Kane*

Michael Lowry*

Louis Ludik

Rob Lyttle*

Ian Madigan

Luke Marshall*

Alby Mathewson

Adam McBurney*

Kyle McCall*

Stuart McCloskey*

Jack McGrath

Gareth Milasinovic

Marty Moore

Stewart Moore*

Jordi Murphy

Alan O’Connor*

David O’Connor

Eric O’Sullivan*

Tom O’Toole*

Marcus Rea*

Matty Rea*

Sean Reidy

David Shanahan*

Jonny Stewart*

Jacob Stockdale*

Nick Timoney*

Kieran Treadwell

Andrew Warwick*

World Rugby banish tries against post protector

World Rugby have opted to banish tries against the post protector with immediate effect. The announcement will now mean tries will not be awarded by grounding the ball against the post protector.

RTE Sport report that the law change was approved on Tuesday after the World Rugby Council conducted a special meeting by conference call and it follows a recommendation by the international federations rugby committee as well as the Laws Review Group. The main reasoning behind the rule change is that it had become difficult for teams to defend the area especially in ruck areas.

The post has come to help many attackers out in the past with scoring tries. For instance CJ Stander’s try against England in 2018 at Twickenham when Ireland won 24-15.

In a statement World Rugby chairman, Bill Beaumont, who was re-elected to the role last week stated, “World Rugby’s mission is to make the game as simple, safe and enjoyable to play as possible. This law amendment reflects that mission”. Mr Beaumont continued, “By stipulating that an attacking team can no longer score against the post protector and therefore must ground the ball in-goal, this gives defending teams a fair chance of preventing a try from being scored.”

Law 8.2 in the rule book will now read:  

The post protector is no longer an extension of the goal-line and therefore Law 8.2 (a) will read: A try is scored when the attacking player is first to ground the ball in the opponents’ in-goal.

 

All Blacks say no to Autumn Internationals

The All Blacks have said no to their autumn international tour later this year according to the rugby paper.co.uk. They report New Zealand will abandon their three match tour in the autumn which is likely to cost England, Scotland and Wales more than £20 million.

The reasoning behind the cancelling of the games which were due to be held at Twickenham, Murrayfield and Cardiff is said to be on the back of advice from the New Zealand government. New Zealand Prime Minister, Jacinda Ahern, has stated the borders of the country will remain closed to the rest of the world for a long time.

Bill Sweeney the England Rugby Football Union Chief Executive has said that the effect of the lockdown will cost the RFU over £100 million over the next year, while Wales chief executive estimates a loss of around £50 million. The biggest of the three games would of course be England v New Zealand. New Zealand of course would have been looking to for revenge in that game having lost in the World Cup semi-final to the English last year. A full house would have brought in £10 million in ticket sales, not to mention the commercial aspect of things such as bars, retail shops in Twickenham itself. Rugbypaper.co.uk report that New Zealand now intend to plan a series of Super Rugby franchises followed by a four test series against Australia. All of these games will be behind closed doors of course.

Meanwhile, plans to get the Six Nations going are well underway. The Super Saturday of Six Nations games which were due to take place on the final weekend of the Six Nations have been pencilled in for October 31st. These game involve Ireland v France, Wales v Scotland and England v Italy. Simon Haliday EPCR chairman said last week, “We, the PRO14, Gallagher Premiership and Top 14, have informed World Rugby we will exercise our right to complete the tournament on our dates in October,’’ EPCR chairman Simon Halliday said last Saturday. “We fully intend that to happen but everyone, of course, is subject to being able to play.

New Wanda Diamond League Calendar for August-October 2020

A shorter Wanda Diamond League season has been scheduled for late summer and autumn 2020 it has been confirmed, with several events re-scheduled and others cancelled as organisers continue to adapt the season in the face of the coronavirus crisis

A new provisional calendar will see a number of Wanda Diamond League meetings go ahead as one-off exhibition events, while others will be staged as adapted Wanda Diamond League meetings. There will be no events in July and the first half of August (other than National Championships where possible), and the season will instead be extended into October

The 2020 Wanda Diamond League will not be a structured series of events leading to a final as is usually the case, so athletes will not earn Diamond League points this season, and there will not be a single, 24-discipline final in Zurich as originally planned.

The provisional timetable is:

August: Monaco (14th), Gateshead (16th) and Stockholm (23rd).

September: Lausanne (2nd), Brussels (4th), Paris (6th tbc), (Rome/Naples (17th), Shanghai (19th).    

October: Eugene (4th), Doha (9th), a second meeting in China (17th, venue tba).

The following events have been cancelled: Rabat (31st May, suspended in March), London (scheduled for 4th July) and Zurich (9th-11th September). The latter would have been staged as the Wanda Diamond League Final.

Following the re-structuring of the 2020 season, Zurich has been granted the right by the General Assembly of the Diamond League to stage the finals in both 2021 and 2022.

The decision was made possible after Eugene gave consent for the final of 2022, which had previously been awarded to the American venue, to be moved back by one year to 2023.

Ulster Rugby Squad for 2020-21 Season

Ulster Rugby has announced a squad of 41 fully contracted players and 2 development players – 39 of which are Irish qualified – for the 2020-21 Guinness PRO14 and Heineken Champions Cup.

The northern province has also confirmed that Jordi Murphy and Will Addison have committed to Ulster for a further two years, while Jacob Stockdale, Seán Reidy and Matty Rea, Stewart Moore have already committed to the team.

The squad for the new season includes two new faces: Ireland fly-half, Ian Madigan, who joins after a three-year stint with Bristol Bears and All Blacks scrum-half, Alby Mathewson, who played for part of last season with Munster Rugby. Both have joined on one-year contracts.

The Ulster Rugby Squad for 2020-21:

Players developed through the Abbey Insurance Academy or Ulster club system are marked with * and development players are in italics.

Will Addison
John Andrew*
Robert Baloucoune*
Billy Burns
Sam Carter
Marcell Coetzee
John Cooney
Angus Curtis*
Matt Faddes
Craig Gilroy*
Iain Henderson*
Rob Herring
James Hume*
Bill Johnston
Greg Jones*
Ross Kane*
Michael Lowry*
Louis Ludik
Rob Lyttle*
Ian Madigan
Luke Marshall*
Alby Mathewson
Adam McBurney*
Kyle McCall*
Stuart McCloskey*
Jack McGrath
Gareth Milasinovic
Marty Moore
Stewart Moore*
Jordi Murphy
Alan O’Connor*
David O’Connor
Eric O’Sullivan*
Tom O’Toole*
Marcus Rea*
Matty Rea*
Seán Reidy
David Shanahan*
Jonny Stewart*
Jacob Stockdale*
Nick Timoney*
Kieran Treadwell
Andrew Warwick*

Abbey Insurance Ulster Rugby Academy Squad for 2020-21:

Azur Allison
Ben Carson
Reuben Crothers
Nathan Doak
Lewis Finlay
Bruce Houston
Hayden Hyde
Cormac Izuchukwu
Dave McCann
James McCormick
Ethan McIlroy
Conor Rankin
Callum Reid
Aaron Sexton
Tom Stewart

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