Another team has pulled out of the MLS is Back tournament at Disney World, as Nashville SC withdraws its participation due to positive COVID-19 cases among its players.
The Nashville SC players and coaches arrived in Orlando, FL. on July 3, with team officials saying they followed all the mandated protocols established by the league as well as local and national health authorities to minimize the risk and exposure to the virus. Despite the precautions, one player tested positive upon arrival at the host hotel, and another eight Nashville SC players tested positive upon a few days of arrival.
According to the team, it was determined that the club would not be medically cleared to get sufficient training before their next match. As a result, it was decided that it would be in the best interest of the health and safety of the players, the staff and the rest of the league that Nashville SC does not participate in the tournament.
“In what has been a challenging year, and in an uncharted environment created by the Tornado that devastated our city and COVID-19, this is another big disappointing outcome for Nashville SC and its supporters,” said Nashville SC CEO Ian Ayre. “Our focus now lays on the recovery of our players who have been infected with COVID-19 and on getting our complete traveling party back home safely. Once everyone is safe and healthy in Nashville, we can then turn the page and focus on our preparation and participation in the return to play for the latter half of the season post Orlando.”
Nashville SC is working with MLS and local health officials on a plan to bring home those players and staff who have consistently tested negative throughout their time in Orlando, Fla. as soon as it ensures everyone’s safety in the process.
Nashville SC joins FC Dallas in withdrawing from the tournament. FC Dallas withdrew after a similar outbreak of positive COVID-19 tests among players and coaches. This leaves 24 teams participating in the tournament.
Photo of MLS is Back play courtesy MLS.
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