In response to the coronavirus pandemic, the XFL has suspended operations for the remainder of its 2020 regular season.
In an effort to help curtail the spread of coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, several professional sports leagues have suspended play since Wednesday, while the NCAA has cancelled its men’s and women’s basketball tournaments, along with all remaining winter and spring championships. The XFL joined those organizations in taking action, announcing on Thursday that it was suspending the remainder of its regular season, which was scheduled to run into April.
When announcing the decision, the XFL said that players will receive base pay and benefits for the regular season, while ticket holders will be issued refunds or given credit toward future games. The league also plans to return for a full season in 2021 and beyond.
“Currently, the XFL will not be playing its regular-season games,” read a league-issued statement. “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.”
Prior to Thursday’s announcement, the XFL already had one game scheduled for this weekend affected by efforts form public health officials and elected leaders to combat the coronavirus crisis. After Washington governor Jay Inslee announced a ban in King, Snohomish and Pierce counties on gatherings larger than 250 people through at least the end of March, the Seattle Dragons revealed plans to play a home game Sunday before an empty CenturyLink Field. However, the suspension of the XFL’s regular season effectively cancels that game, along with all other remaining XFL contests.
Image of XFL action courtesy The Dome at America’s Center.
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