Major League Soccer Suspends 2020 Season For 30 Days Amid Coronavirus Outbreak
BOSTON (CBS) -- Another league has suspended play amid the coronavirus outbreak. Major League Soccer has joined the NBA, suspending its current season for 30 days, the league announced Thursday.
MLS just kicked off its 2020 campaign two weeks ago, but will now take a break as the United States deals with the coronavirus pandemic.
"Our clubs were united today in the decision to temporarily suspend our season – based on the advice and guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC), and other public health authorities, and in the best interest of our fans, players, officials and employees," MLS Commissioner Don Garber said in the release. "We'd like to thank our fans for their continued support during this challenging time."
The New England Revolution opened their season with a road loss to Montreal and a home draw against the Chicago Fire. Three of their next four games were scheduled to be played at Gillette Stadium.
"The New England Revolution support Major League Soccer's decision to suspend match play for 30 days. The safety and well-being of Revolution fans, players, coaches, and employees is the club's top priority," the club said in a statement. "The goal is to reschedule affected games for a future date to be determined later. This impacts the Revolution's home games scheduled for March 15, April 4, and April 8. All tickets purchased for the club's home games during this period will remain valid for the rescheduled dates. Season Members can contact their customer service representative with any questions."
In addition to the NBA and MLS, the NCAA has announced that it will play the tournament with no fans in the crowd. Several schools around the country have already suspended spring sports because of coronavirus.