Herbert Hainer gives statement about measures to slow the coronavirus

The outbreak and spread of the COVID 19 virus has effectively shut down sport across the globe and has put a temporary halt on normal life as we know it until everything can be contained safely. The DFL and DFB just announced earlier today that they would follow the Premier League and not resume play until April 4th at the earliest, if that’s even the case.

In a recent interview with the German Press Agency, Bayern Munich President Herbert Hainer said that football is far from the most important thing right now (Bild). He went on to say that Bayern will help in any way they can to help keep everyone safe and healthy:

At FC Bayern we are now looking at how, in these difficult days for all of us, we can be engaged within our means entirely in the interest of society and solidarity. Health and solidarity in the population are now of the utmost importance. We must have trust, stand together, and slow the spread of the virus at all costs. As FC Bayern we would like to serve as an example in our daily actions.

Staff members at the club have been allowed to work from home if they feel they need to do so, and other accommodations are being made for those who may feel unsafe or at risk. The same goes for all of the players in the squad, most of whom have been utilizing their home gyms to stay in peak physical condition while everything is shut down for the foreseeable future:

First and foremost is the health of the staff including their families. We have to provide people with continuous information and be transparent and easy to reach. We obviously are doing everything to protect the players and their. families. Health is the most important imperative. You can’t take anything lightly.

Lewy with his adorable workout partner:

It’s also already been strongly suggested that the European Championship that was supposed to take place this summer will most likely be held next summer. While that’s not a forgone conclusion until UEFA holds its meeting tomorrow, Hainer feels that playing the tournament this summer is next to impossible:

The impending Euro Championship in June, which is supposed to take place all across Europe, is obviously under heavy scrutiny now. At the present moment, given the current state of affairs I simply cannot imagine holding the tournament.

Lastly, Hainer called for everyone to stay level-headed and reasonable during this difficult period. Everyone needs to play their part in that respect, he said:

I appeal to everyone here to act reasonably. Every single person is called upon. Every individual is now important.