Also the FMBB 2020 in May is canceled due of Corona Virus

The organizers of the FMBB have announced in an official announcement that they are adapting to the national circumstances surrounding the current Corona Virus (COVID-19) epidemic. Specifically, this means the cancellation of the event in France that was actually planned for May. The country currently has more than 1,000 confirmed cases and counts as a risk area in many countries. According to experts, the peak has not yet been reached. It would be irresponsible due to the large number of international starters which would need to traveling across whole Europe. The French Belgian Shepherd Association and the organizer made this decision in unison. In addition to the participants, they also don’t want to unnecessarily expose the many helpers to danger.

Excerpt from the official Statement

A consequence is that we will have few competitors present due to the current and future restrictions imposed by the different authorities in many different countries. Since we normally receive over 40 countries from different continents, we would put everyone at high risk. The FMBB acknowledges and assumes its responsibility in this matter. That is why the world championship is canceled.

We fully agree and confirm the views of our French organizer, the French Belgian Shepherd Association. They do not have to put their technical staff, volunteers (often elderly) at risk, whom we will put in contact with competitors, supporters, a large part of which will have crossed Europe and more.

It is therefore preferable to make this wise decision to cancel or postpone

The FMBB board will meet on March 17th at the Belgian headquarters in Ostend and discuss a possible solution for the FMBB 2020. It is possible to completely forego the event this year, or to hold the tournament later. The Fédération Mondiale du Berger Belge will provide further information after the meeting.

Source: https://www.fmbb.net/wp-content/uploads/FMBB-2020-Championship-Press-Release.pdf