The World Curling Federation has cancelled the World Women’s Curling Championship 2020, in Canada, due to the ongoing spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

The event was set to take place between Saturday 14 and Sunday 22 March, in Prince George, British Columbia, with 13 Members Associations competing for the world title and coveted Olympic Qualification Points for the Olympic Winter Games Beijing 2022.

With the event now not taking place the World Curling Federation will consider the implications on Olympic qualification and discuss potential changes that will need to be considered with all the relevant stakeholders.

This decision comes following a recommendation from British Columbia’s Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry, which was made after careful deliberation with local public health officials and the event organisers.

Also, the decision was taken considering other major sporting events that have been cancelled in the past 24 hours, and various national travel restrictions that are coming into force around the world.

World Curling Federation President, Kate Caithness, said: “It’s with regret we’re announcing it is no longer possible to run this world championship.

“However, the safety of our athletes, officials, staff and supporters is paramount which we cannot guarantee with the fast-evolving nature of this worldwide situation.

“My thanks go to Curling Canada, the Local Organising Committee, the City of Prince George and Northern Health for their prudent advice and input in taking this decision. Finally, my deepest appreciation to our athletes, officials and staff, and to curling supporters around the world for your patience and understanding in this matter.”

For those who have already purchased tickets for the event refunds will be made available at the original point of purchase after 23 March. If tickets were purchased online through ticketsnorth.ca refunds will be processed automatically.

Finally, there is an ongoing evaluation into the LGT World Men’s (in Glasgow, Scotland), World Mixed Doubles, World Senior (both in Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada) and European C-Division (Ljubljana, Slovenia) Curling Championships 2020 to be played in the coming weeks. Communication on them will be made separately as is appropriate.