This archive report was first published on 20 May 2020.
China's Chinese Super League (CSL) is planning to resume its season in late June or early July, despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
According to reports, the CSL has drawn up detailed plans to keep players and fans safe, inspired by South Korea's K-League and Germany's Bundesliga, which successfully restarted their seasons.
Initially, matches will be held behind closed doors, with fans gradually allowed in once it is deemed safe to do so.
When fans do return, they will be required to sit at least one metre apart, and substitutes will be spaced out on the sidelines, wearing masks.
Other measures include cancelling child mascots, team handshakes, group photos, and other activities, as well as limiting photojournalists' areas and replacing goal celebrations with applause.
The plans still require government approval before the season can kick off.
It was initially supposed to start on February 22, but was indefinitely postponed in January due to the pandemic.
