FIFA Issues Ebola Guidelines, Confirms Club World Cup in Morocco to Proceed
FIFA has released a series of recommendations to help football stakeholders manage the ongoing Ebola epidemic, assuring that the Club World Cup, scheduled for December 10–20 in Morocco, is not under threat.
In coordination with the World Health Organization (WHO), FIFA has stated that it is monitoring the global health situation and its potential impact on large gatherings such as football matches. While Morocco has reported no cases of Ebola, FIFA emphasized it is ready to reassess plans if conditions change.
Neutral Venues for Affected Countries
FIFA has expressed support for the Confederation of African Football (CAF)‘s decision to relocate matches involving Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Guinea—the countries hardest hit by the epidemic—to neutral venues. It further advises that:
Team gatherings from these countries be held on neutral ground
Supporters be educated on Ebola prevention measures
Health and Safety Recommendations
FIFA also advises strict health protocols:
Daily temperature checks for players and delegation members from affected countries
Screening and isolation of any individual showing symptoms of the virus, especially if they’ve recently traveled to the high-risk zones
Implementation of these protocols across both national teams and clubs
Club World Cup Preparations Continue
Regarding the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup in Morocco, the governing body reiterated:
“According to the World Health Organization, there are no recorded cases of Ebola in Morocco. Consequently, preparations are continuing as planned.”
Nonetheless, FIFA assured that it remains vigilant and responsive:
“Should the situation change, FIFA will immediately contact the clubs concerned.”
These measures aim to protect public health without compromising the integrity of global football competitions.
