Coronavirus leaves Leeds Rhinos' visit to Catalans Dragons in the balance

Leeds Rhinos hope to know by Tuesday afternoon whether their Betfred Super League game in France this weekend will go ahead and if fans will be allowed in to watch.
Richard Agar. Picture by Jonathan Gawthorpe.Richard Agar. Picture by Jonathan Gawthorpe.
Richard Agar. Picture by Jonathan Gawthorpe.

The coronavirus has already led to several major sporting events in France either being cancelled or played behind closed doors.

Rhinos are due to face Catalans Dragons at Stade Gilbert Brutus, in Perpignan, on Saturday afternoon.

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A statement from the Leeds club, issued at 4pm on Monday, confirmed: "Leeds Rhinos remains in constant contact with Catalans Dragons regarding this Saturday’s Betfred Super League game in Perpignan.

"At present, the game will go ahead as scheduled, however should the situation change due to the ongoing developments with the French authorities' procedures to deal with coronavirus, we will update supporters at the earliest possible opportunity.

"We hope to have a definitive answer within the next 24 hours."

A Catalans statement said: "Catalans Dragons contacted this morning the Perpignan Prefecture de Police following the government decision to ban gatherings of more than 1,000 people.

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"At present, the club is waiting for an official decision from the Perpignan Prefecture or government regarding this Saturday’s Super League game against Leeds Rhinos.

"We hope to have a definitive answer within the next 24 hours."

The Rugby Football League was represented at a meeting between sports governing bodies and the government earlier on Monday.

It is understood other rugby league fixtures will take place as planned this weekend, with supporters allowed in.

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But an RFL spokesman confirmed: "Catalans versus Leeds is very much up in the air.

"It depends on the French authorities."

Catalans could have the option to call the game off, but that is unlikely as they are already two matches behind schedule due to postponements because of the weather and World Club Challenge.

Alternatively, they may request a switch to Leeds, stage the game behind closed doors or in front of a crowd of less than 1,000.

As of Monday afternoon, Rhinos had sold 210 tickets for the game.

Rhinos coach Richard Agar confirmed Rhinos are preparing for the game as scheduled.

The team are due to travel to Perpignan, via Barcelona, on Friday.

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