This archive report was first published on 21 May 2020.
As the world continues to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic, China's football league is making plans to resume play in late June or early July.
According to reports, the Chinese Super League (CSL) will initially hold matches behind closed doors, following the lead of South Korea's K-League and Germany's Bundesliga.
Supporters will be allowed to attend games, but will be required to sit at least one metre apart, while substitutes will be spaced out on the sidelines and must wear masks.
Additionally, the league has announced plans to cancel child mascots, team handshakes, group photos, and other activities that could potentially spread the virus.
Photographers will also be limited to areas behind the goal line and the sideline, and players will be prohibited from gathering and hugging after scoring a goal.
Instead, celebrations will be replaced with applause.
The anti-virus plans require government approval before the season can kick off.
The CSL was originally set to start on February 22, but was indefinitely postponed in January due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
However, with local infections largely under control, Chinese football is edging towards a restart.
