The Nations League tie between England and Iceland has been given the go-ahead to be played at Wembley Stadium, aw confirmed by the BBC. The game is due to take place on Wednesday, 18 November.
England Nations League Tie Against Iceland Goes Ahead
England Fixture in Doubt Following Iceland Travel From Denmark
The UK Government had previously said that no exemptions would be made regarding travel from Denmark. Iceland play Denmark before travelling to England. A spike in cases of coronavirus in Denmark had led to the Country being placed on the quarantine list, putting the Nations League tie in doubt. But, that exemption has now been granted.
Exemption
The concerns in Denmark relate to a new form of the virus that is thought to be linked to mink and may be able to spread from the animals to humans.
There had been discussions around the game being moved to a neutral venue, but the FA were keen to ensure that the England team were not needing to travel. The usual exemptions for quarantines were for elite sports but this was changed regarding Denmark.
An FA statement had read: “We have asked Government to consider allowing us to play our final UEFA Nations League match at Wembley Stadium, by giving travel exemption to the Icelandic team subject to strict medical protocols.”
The government have now said that the game can indeed proceed at Wembley Stadium as long as strict medical protocols are adhered to.
Protocols for Iceland
The protocols needed are that the Icelandic team must take COVID tests before leaving Denmark as well as further tests upon entering England. The FA will also take responsibility for Iceland maintaining a strict bubble. This will include them arriving on a private charter jet that is to be COVID safe and a private terminal will be kept aside for them to avoid contact with any other travellers.
Separate access to Wembley Stadium will be set aside as well as separate accesses to the team hotel.
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