Coronavirus 1. Megan Rapinoe 0. American football star Megan Rapinoe, known for her outspokenness and her political stance, will not participate in the Challenge Cup organized in late June in Utah by the North American League ( NSWL), because of the coronavirus, announced Farid Benstiti, the French coach of OL Reign, Seattle club owned by OL Groupe where the American striker plays.
" Too bad. I understand her motivations but I am disappointed and frustrated that she is not with us to compete in this tournament, "regretted the coach, quoted by the Lyon regional daily Le Progrès.
No financial consequences
The persistent health crisis in the United States, fears of being transmitted the virus, as well as the number of matches (25) scheduled over a month convinced the 34-year-old striker to abstain. According to the newspaper, Rapinoe is not the only American international to have decided to forfeit this competition set up by the NWSL when the championship has still not been able to start in the United States.
Since participation in the Challenge Cup is on a voluntary basis for all players of the NWSL, the winner of the last Women's Ballon d'Or is not exposed to any financial consequences. The tournament, which will involve the nine NWSL clubs, will take place behind closed doors from June 27 to July 26 in Utah, Herriman and in the suburbs of Salt Lake City.
According to the protocols provided, all players, staff and officials, will be tested 48 hours before leaving for Utah and then upon arrival, and will be subjected to other tests, temperature readings and a symptom examination. throughout the tournament.