Women’s hockey world championships postponed due to COVID-19

The women’s world hockey championships are being postponed in Canada due to coronavirus concerns. 

The championship was supposed to be held in Nova Scotia, Canada from May 6 to May 16 and teams were preparing to fly to the country in order to abide by quarantine rules the country has in place for international travelers, the Associated Press reported.

International Ice Hockey Federation chief Rene Fasel told the AP that the decision by health officials in Nova Scotia was unexpected.

Ten teams are competing in the championship, which may now have to take place over the summer, Fasel said.

“At 5 o’clock this morning, this was a go. At 7:30 it was not,” Hockey Canada CEO Tom Renney said. “Some of this is much, much further beyond our control than we would like.”

Fasel said the championship might be held in August or hosted in another country. However, they hope to keep the games in Canada.

“We have every intention of making sure we follow through with a women’s world championship here in Canada at a point in the near future,” Renney said. “And beyond that, who’s to say?”

The cancellation is due to an outbreak of coronavirus cases in Canada. 

Hockey Canada president Scott Smith said health officials are not willing to compromise on their stance, according to AP.

“In the end, we must accept the decision of the government,” a joint statement from the IIHF and Hockey Canada said. “We owe it to every single player that was looking forward to getting back on the ice after such a difficult year that we do everything possible to ensure this tournament can be moved to new dates and played this year.”