MLS To Suspend Play Immediately For 30 Days

Mar 12, 2020, 9:39 AM | Updated: 3:58 pm

A detailed view of a MLS soccer ball at Audi Field on March 7, 2020 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)

(Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)

BY TOM HACKETT, KSL SPORTS

KSL Sports

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Major League Soccer is suspending their season for 30 days amidst the recent novel Coronavirus outbreak in the United States.

“Our clubs were united today in the decision to temporarily suspend our season,” MLS Commissioner Don Garber said.

There has been no indication that an MLS player has contracted the virus.

Major League Soccer Suspends Season for 30 Days pic.twitter.com/P0HEPmsnkx

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) March 12, 2020

The precautionary measures come following the NBA’s decision to suspend play after Utah Jazz Center, Rudy Gobert, tested positive for the virus minutes prior to tip-off against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday evening.

Real Salt Lake had played just two matches to begin their 2020 season in which they notched two draws.

Garber states “the league and clubs will communicate plans for the continuation of the 2020 season and update the status of league events,” suggesting that the 2020 season will likely have to be adjusted upon return due to the 30-day suspension.

The USL suspension came shortly after the MLS announcement. However, no suspension or cancelation has been made regarding the upcoming start to the NWSL season, which is scheduled to begin on April 18th.

Real Salt Lake Club Statement

“We are diligently working and coordinating with all of our leagues to get information out to our staff, fans and partners as soon as possible,” Chief Business Officer Andy Carroll notes in his statement.