Amateur football in France: Covid-19 health pass now required

Amateur football clubs will require a Covid-19 health pass for access to training sessions, matches, changing rooms, and stands, the French football federation has announced.

All amateur clubs will require the pass, la Fédération française de football (FFF) said on Saturday, July 31.

In a statement, FFF president Noël Le Graët said: “We are conscious that the health pass is an extra constraint for our members and clubs. But this measure today seems like the safest solution to restart football, by better protecting our players. Their health is our priority.”

The FFF added that the measure will also apply to other sporting federations.

The statement said: “The health pass will be required to play football and to access the changing rooms, as well as the stands, before each training session and match.”

National amateur football club competitions are set to restart in August, while regional and departmental championships will begin in September, the FFF said.

“This much-awaited restart will be made possible by the putting in place of the health pass, from the very first training and seasonal matches.”

A health pass will also be required for young players aged 12-17, from September 30. Under 12s will not need one.

Since July 21, a health pass has constituted either a negative test, proof of vaccination, or proof of recovery from Covid.

It is now required in leisure and cultural sites with a capacity of more than 50 people, and will soon be required for entry to other public places such as restaurants and cafes too.

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