Statement: Wheelchair tennis

The British Paralympic Association (BPA) can confirm that a ParalympicsGB staff member with the wheelchair tennis squad has tested positive for COVID-19 before arrival at the Athlete Village on Monday 23 August, having previously tested negative in Japan on arrival and while at Preparation Camp. The positive test result was identified through daily testing. The staff member has started self-isolation immediately as per the Tokyo 2020 playbook rules at a government approved isolation facility.

The health and welfare of the delegation is of upmost importance and the BPA are in constant contact with all those involved, led by our Chief Medical Officer Dr Stuart Miller and mental health lead Dr Amanda Gatherer.

The BPA continues to implement extensive COVID-19 testing and COVID protocols following the guidance and playbook rules issues by the Tokyo Organising Committee.

Together with Tokyo 2020 organisers and the relevant local authorities we are currently working through the process to identify close contacts.

ParalympicsGB Chef de Mission Penny Briscoe said: “The health and welfare of all ParalympicsGB athletes and staff remains our number one priority and we are working hard to ensure all those involved receive the support they need.

“All athletes and support staff are tested daily in line with the protocols established by the Japanese government, the International Paralympic Committee and Tokyo 2020 organisers and we fully respect and continue to adhere to this process, alongside the COVID-19 mitigation measures in place.”

UPDATE 26.8.21

ParalympicsGB can confirm that all our wheelchair tennis players have been cleared to practice and compete at Tokyo 2020 Paralympics Games. Tokyo 2020 authorities have confirmed that they are not close contacts of the positive staff member.

ParalympicsGB have a number of enhanced safety precautions around the wheelchair tennis squad including enhanced daily testing to ensure the safety of the whole team.