Coronavirus is changing the entire world in ways we never imagined. To keep up with this change, many organizations have adopted new ways of operation, to curb the spread of the virus. Best believe that the football-world isn’t an exception. With social distancing and minimal physical contact at the top of the list of safety measures, it’s normal to ask ‘’will the virus significantly affect the traditional ways of watching football?’’. As this popular sport makes a comeback to the big screens, let’s look at how things might change post-COVID-19.
Fewer spectators
Based on advice from medical experts, one way to reduce the spread of COVID is to avoid crowded places. Seeing as football is a game of numbers on all fronts, everyone expects some kind of change. While the usual 22-players per game will likely remain the same, spectators, on the other hand, will no doubt significantly reduce or not exist at all. More fans will have to catch games on big screens, which will increase online streaming but reduce the thrill and excitement that comes with cheering at the stadium.
Less income for Sport clubs
You’d probably agree that a full-to-capacity stadium will generate more income in sales of tickets and merchandise. As long as stadium management can’t sell tickets, there’s bound to be some revenue loss. Also, the effect of not being able to fill the stadiums will make sponsorship an unattractive venture for companies; since the less physical audience is bad for business.
Less pay for players
There is no doubt that the players will take some of the heat. Since football club income may reduce compared to previous earnings, it’s only natural that they will want to look inward at younger players instead of spending huge bucks on players (for substantial transfer fees and contracts). The big clubs may likely keep spending, as they always aim for the best. However, costs will significantly reduce for many clubs, since no one knows what the immediate future holds.
More substitutes
Since the players’ safety is paramount, FIFA will give more leeway when it comes to the substitution of more than three players. This move will help balance the effect of fatigue and injuries. If matches extend to extra time, it will be possible to substitute up to six players.
Increased streaming
With little to no opportunity for fans to watch their teams live, the only alternative is to turn to their screens. The number of games on television will also have to increase since viewers may not catch the game live. Also, the right to broadcast a match by subscription could be affected. For the most part, most governments around the world may encourage free air for some games to curb overcrowding in hot spots.
Also, other online activities such as sports betting will pick up as football returns. However, being unable to catch some games will likely reduce betting on some odds so you should make the most of whatever games you can and bet on btts today.
