ISU short track worlds postponed indefinitely due to novel coronavirus outbreak

LAUSANNE -- The International Skating Union (ISU) World Short Track Speed Skating Championships, originally scheduled for March 13 to 15 in Seoul, South Korea, cannot be staged as planned, the ISU announced here on Tuesday.

The ISU said in a statement on its website that due to the novel coronavirus developments and the situation in Seoul, it was unable to hold the World Short Track Speed Skating Championships 2020 on the planned date.

The event was scheduled to be held at Mokdong Ice Rink, but the ISU was informed through the Korea Skating Union that "the competent authorities of the city of Seoul ordered the closing of the Mokdong Ice Rink and the cancellation of all planned competitions".

The ISU also took into account the possibility of postponement or relocation but admitted it would be "difficult to achieve" because of the uncertain worldwide development of the coronavirus, the limited available time slots and logistical challenges.

"A postponement and/or relocation of this Championships might be considered if the circumstances would allow so in due time. Before taking a final decision, the ISU will remain in close contact with the Korea Skating Union and ISU Members," the ISU said.

The ISU regretted that the last international short track event in 2019/20 season and also the most important one cannot be held as planned, but believed that under the current circumstances, ISU Members, skaters and fans would understand this decision.