:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/66494041/usa_today_14123534.0.jpg)
For five weeks, the XFL had returned and the Los Angeles Wildcats ran a record of 2-3 in the West division but it appears that just like most other sports leagues, Vince McMahon’s second attempt at football will come to a close for the time being due to the coronavirus outbreak, according to reports on Thursday.
On Thursday evening, the XFL released a statement announcing that it was suspending all games, after previously deciding to play in empty stadiums.
“Currently, the XFL will not be playing its regular-season games. However, all players will be paid their base pay and benefits for the 2020 regular season. All XFL ticket holders will be issued refunds or credit toward future games. The XFL is committed to playing a full season in 2021 and future years.”
XFL statementhttps://t.co/MbuHgUmzmZ pic.twitter.com/PIZLOl1fld
— XFL (@xfl2020) March 12, 2020
Earlier in the day before the initial announcement, sportswriter Jason La Canfora asked the obvious question of whether or not the XFL will ever be able to return from this stoppage in play partway through the first season back.
Hearing the XFL will be shutting down. Have to wonder if a start-up like that will be able to bounce back
— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) March 12, 2020
The XFL is now facing a whole set of issues that the NFL won’t have to deal with — including having to suspend the season as the NBA, NHL, and MLS have had to this week — since the NFL doesn’t start live games again until August. But the NFL does have free agency starting next week, beginning with the tampering window opening at 4 p.m. ET on Monday.
The NFL has canceled the annual league meeting, which was set to be from March 29-April 1 in Palm Beach, Florida. They’ve canceled the HBCU combine and there could be complications with visits, meetings, physicals, workouts for prospective free agents or draft prospects. Several major colleges are canceling or postponing their pro days, including Michigan and Alabama.
Finna be at my pro day like.... pic.twitter.com/YsCE1vx7iA
— K’Lavon Chaisson (@S4CKGURU) March 12, 2020
The NFL is also looking into how they will need to address health and safety when it comes to April’s draft, as reported by Adam Schefter.
NFL is taking a hard look at adjustments to Las Vegas draft, per @GehlkenNFL.https://t.co/SxYjz3iREQ
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 12, 2020
Fan events for the 2020 NFL Draft in Las Vegas will be cancelled, according to a Caesars insider. The league is discussing ways to hold the Draft without crowds.
— Las Vegas Locally (@LasVegasLocally) March 12, 2020
Due to the evolving coronavirus situation, Auditions and Workshops have been postponed until further notice. We will provide an update once new dates and times are confirmed. Workshop registration fees will be refunded by Friday, March 27th. Thank you for your understanding. pic.twitter.com/ttJfmQcio9
— Rams Cheerleaders (@LARamsCheer) March 12, 2020
Several teams have begun announcing that their employees will work remotely for the time being, including the LA Chargers.
Chargers take precautions amid coronavirus concerns. Statement from team owner Dean Spanos pic.twitter.com/ELsvEjHEnE
— Gilbert Manzano (@GManzano24) March 12, 2020
CDC’s steps to prevent illness:
- Clean your hands often
- Avoid close contact
- Stay home if you’re sick
- Cover coughs and sneezes
- Wear a face mask if you are sick
- Clean and disinfect
For more information, visit the CDC’s website.