Malta Rugby forced to pull out of Sevens tournaments due to COVID-19 restrictions

The Malta Rugby Football Union announced that they were forced to pull out of the upcoming Rugby Europe 7s Conference Tournament for women, which was set to be staged in Serbia due to COVID-19 travel restrictions.

The men’s and women’s selections were set to compete in the continental tournament in Belgrade between June 4 and 5 but the Maltese contingent was forced to pull out as Serbia are listed in the red list of the Health Authorities in Malta that would force the team to go on a 15-day quarantine on their return.

“It is with heavy hearts that the MRFU must announce that it will be withdrawing its participation in the upcoming Rugby Europe 7s Competition, due to Serbia remaining on the red travel list,” the MRFU said in a statement.

“Despite the immense effort and sacrifice made by all players who form part of the squads, we simply cannot ask them to sacrifice the two weeks necessary to quarantine after the tournament.

“We as a Union fully respect the decisions made by the Health Authorities and are grateful for all the work they have done to guide us through the Pandemic. 

“We would also like to take the opportunity to thank all the staff at the Health Authorities, SportMalta, and the Malta Olympic Committee who guided and assisted us in preparing for the competition.

“It cannot be understated how proud we are of all the players and technical staff who have been preparing for this competition, as we are certain they would have brought the results fitting of a National Team. 

“We are sorely disappointed that they will not be able to prove this on the pitch, but we are sure they will continue to persevere to bring their best to the pitch and game of Rugby when we are able to do so again.”