Basel 2021 to take place without spectators

The European Championships in Men’s and Women’s Artistic Gymnastics, scheduled for 21 to 25 April 2021 in Basel (SUI), will take place without a live audience.

“Of course, we’re sad that the seats will be empty and fans can only watch at home”, says LOC President Kathrin Amacker. “But everybody’s health comes first.” The top priority now is to ensure that the gymnasts enjoy high-quality European Championships even without applause from the grandstands. The LOC can rely here on the strong support of its partners. These are led by European Gymnastics, the Swiss Gymnastics Federation and the host city, with support from sponsors and a federal solidarity fund.

A large international audience will be able to savour the action thanks to online and selected TV coverage. Enthusiasm for the championships runs high: 40 teams have entered, including all the leading gymnastics nations such as Great Britain, Ukraine, Russia, Romania and Basel’s neighbours Germany and France. For the competitors, the Championships are the dress rehearsal for this summer’s Olympic Games in Tokyo.

For optimum safety, the LOC is working closely with the authorities on health measures. Intensive screening and compulsory use of masks will play key roles. “Switzerland has already proved that it can stage a major international sporting event despite the pandemic”, says Managing Director Beat Läuchli with reference to the recent Ski World Cup in Crans-Montana.

The LOC will reimburse the cost of tickets already purchased and waiver the handling fee.