Strict security and safety measures facing long-awaited LaLiga restart
The 2019/20 season finally got back under way and LaLiga set up strict protocol for a return following the coronavirus pandemic
La Liga is back but it will not be fully back until we get those fans back inside the stadiums to cheer on their teams. The SmartBank League matches are being governed by regulations very different from those that existed before the championship was paused due to the coronavirus outbreak. In order to avoid contagions in the resumption of the championship, there is a strict protocol with security and safety measures.
All the stadiums across Spain are disinfected 24 hours before the matches start and remain closed until the day of the match. All zones are sealed off and three hours before games kick-off, LaLiga and security personnel give the go-ahead for the countdown to the game to begin. In addition, only for essential personnel are meant to walk around the sports venues and the control is exhaustive, with body temperature measurements at each gate. There are staggered arrival slots for the teams, employees and the media. Matches are of course taking place behind closed doors.
Spanish Top-tier and second-tier clubs now use two buses to transport their footballers, and it will only be allowed to fly charter when travelling by plane. UD Almería, for instance, use an aeroplane of 180 seats for 44 people always keeping social-distancing. The teams are confined and have exclusive areas assigned for them to minimised risks in hotels.
At the time of the game, the coaching staff at technical area including the dugout and benches, must practise social-distancing. The rest of workers and substitutes occupy the stands, as well as photographers and TV cameramen. Players and head coaches do not have to wear masks when warming up and playing, but all medical staff will be required to wear full protective equipment, and non-playing staff will have on them their event accreditations and will have to wear face coverings and gloves at all times. Both participating sides will also be taking to the pitch separately so as to avoid unnecessary mingling in the tunnels.
Moreover, a moment’s silence will be held before the matches to recognise all those whose lives have been affected by Covid-19. All remaining games of the 2019/20 campaign are expected to follow LaLiga’s protocol, and whilst it is not what we are used to, it is the new normal for the time being.