Introduction
The COVID-19 pandemic has drastically impacted the world, and one country that has been heavily impacted is the United Kingdom (UK). Despite the surge in cases, hospitalizations, and deaths, the European Football Association (UEFA) decided to go forward with the 2020 European Football Championship, also known as the Euro 2020. This decision has been met with criticism, as many are questioning why the tournament is being held in a country with a severe COVID-19 outbreak.
The Current Situation in the UK
As of June 2021, the UK has recorded over 4 million cases and over 128,000 deaths due to COVID-19. The number of daily cases has been increasing steadily, with over 31,000 new cases on July 8th, 2021. The situation is so severe, that the UK Government has had to implement strict measures such as lockdowns, social distancing, and mandatory mask-wearing to try to curb the spread of the virus. Despite these measures, the UK still has one of the highest death rates in Europe.
The Argument for Holding the Euro 2020
UEFA has cited numerous reasons for continuing with the Euro 2020. One common argument is that the tournament gives a much-needed morale boost to the people during uncertain and difficult times. Additionally, the tournament has already been postponed once due to the pandemic, and delaying it again could cause financial losses to the organizers and businesses that depend on it.
The Counterarguments
Many people disagree with the decision to allow the tournament to proceed in the UK. One of the main arguments is that it is reckless and irresponsible to hold such a large gathering of people when the country is still grappling with the pandemic. The tournament has brought in thousands of fans from around the world, increasing the risk of transmission and the spread of new variants. Additionally, the games have been held in various stadiums across the UK, with the potential to spread the virus from one city to another.
Another argument against the Euro 2020 is that it has put a strain on the already overburdened National Health Service (NHS). Hospitals are already struggling to cope with the influx of COVID-19 patients, and the tournament has led to an increase in alcohol-related injuries, domestic violence, and other accidents that require medical attention. Allowing fans to attend games in person has also put a strain on the NHS’s resources, as crowds need to be controlled, tested, and treated if necessary.
Conclusion
The decision to hold the Euro 2020 in the UK during a severe COVID-19 outbreak has been controversial. While UEFA has cited reasons such as morale boost and financial benefits for their decision, many argue that it is reckless and puts lives at risk. The tournament has the potential to increase the spread of the virus and strain the already struggling NHS. As the world continues to fight against COVID-19, it is important to consider the impact of our actions and prioritize the health and safety of our communities.