After ongoing discussions with the Local Health Authorities from the city of Lohja, the Local Organising Committee and the World Curling Federation, it has been determined that due to concerns over the growing number of positive COVID-19 cases at the event, the World Junior-B Curling Championships 2022 will now be cancelled.
The men’s competition was in its round-robin stage, however, with the positive cases being confirmed by PCR testing, and in order to guarantee the safety of our athletes, staff and volunteers, the World Curling Federation, on the recommendation of the Local Health Authorities, has made the difficult decision that the event can no longer continue.
The women’s competition scheduled to begin on Monday 10 January will also be cancelled.
The discussions with the Local Health Authorities will continue to determine what further safety protocols can be implemented in order to allow the World Qualification Event 2022 — also set to take place in Lohja from 17 January — to go ahead as planned.
The World Curling Federation will now begin discussions with the Competition and Rules and the Athlete Commissions in order to determine the method of completing the field for the World Junior Curling Championships 2022 taking place in Jönköping, Sweden in March.
World Curling Federation President Kate Caithness said, “It is with deep regret that we have been forced to cancel the World Junior-B Curling Championships 2022. I know how disappointing this decision will be for our young athletes but their safety together with those of our officials, staff and volunteers will always be our first concern.
“Our grateful thanks are extended to the Local Organising Committee who have worked tirelessly to ensure the safety of everyone present in Lohja and for their understanding following the cancellation of both Championships. Also our thanks to the Local Health Authorities for their continuing support and advice.”
