Public Health is changing its mind. If it remains “strongly recommended”, wearing a mask in sports will not be compulsory on the playing surface, both civilian and extracurricular.
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Athletes young and old can breathe a sigh of relief. After several days of procrastination and contradictions, the authorities are correcting the situation regarding the wearing of a mask during sports practice, whether it is carried out in a school, extracurricular or civilian setting.
If public health experts “strongly” suggest wearing the mask during exercise, they no longer make it a requirement.
“It is strongly recommended to keep your mask or face covering on at all times on a playing surface, which includes the players’ bench. It is suggested to remove it only in the event that it would cause significant discomfort for the practice of the activity. This issue can be respiratory or related to safety, especially if the mask or face covering interferes with visibility or if an obstacle such as a helmet prevents putting it on or taking it off, as in the case of hockey. It can also be withdrawn if it does not confer any significant protection, for example if there is a great distance between the players, as is the case in several racket sports”, can we read in a press release released Thursday at the end of the day.
However, face coverings are still required at all times in locker rooms or when travelling.
Notice to fitness enthusiasts: this permission to remove the mask during exercise does not apply to gyms. Wearing a face covering remains mandatory at all times.
The authorities point out that this instruction could be adjusted according to the evolution of the epidemiological situation. “It is consistent with the need to live collectively with the virus, and calls for good judgment and the collaboration of citizens”, we insist.