Premier League Abolishes Twice Weekly COVID-19 Test Rules For Players And Staff

JAKARTA - The English Premier League will phase out COVID-19 testing for players and staff from April 4, 2022. However, testing will switch to those with symptoms only.

"Starting April 4, the League will phase out the twice-weekly COVID-19 testing of players and staff and switch to only symptomatic testing," the Premier League said in a statement, cited from Antara from Reuters.

"The well-being of players and staff remains a priority, and the Premier League will continue to monitor the national COVID-19 situation and adapt protocols across the League as needed, in line with the latest guidance from public health authorities and medical experts," the statement continued.

In addition, English Premier League clubs have also decided to re-implement the five-time substitution rule starting the 2022/23 season.

This change was made after stakeholders in the Premier League met on Thursday.

The highest competition in English football will be in line with other top European leagues, which first implement the rule.

"Starting next season, clubs will be allowed to make five substitutions, on three occasions during a match, with an additional chance at half-time," the Premier League said.

"In total, there are nine substitutes that can be included on the team sheet."