Ilona Korstin: We took all the risks and it turned out as a right move

VTB League general director Ilona Korstin answered fans questions that were asked in Stay Online in League’s social networks to League’s management.

On season renewal

VTB League has become the first in Russia to suspend the season. This was an independent decision of the League’s management as there were no official documents. We took all the risks and it turned out as a right move. On March the 17, in connection with the recommendations of the Ministry of Sports and decisions of regional authorities, together with the RPL and the KHL, the date of suspending sporting events in Russia was set to April 10. We hope the situation gets stable and we will be able to continue the season which is one of the most dramatic in League’s history. Today, our top priority is health of the players, fans and all the participatns. We can’t renew the championship if we’re not sure their health is not at risk.

On pre-schedule results of the season

At the moment, we are not considering this option. Both we and the clubs want to play 2019/20 season properly. If we are talking about the format in which the championship can continue, then we need to talk with clubs and make a joint decision.

On League’s clubs situation

Currently, the foreign clubs have the most complicated situation. One of Kalev’s team members was tested positive for Covid-19, so they all are on quarantine waiting for test results. The same is happening at Lokomotiv-Kuban who played in Tallinn the last game before season break. As far as we know, all the players of both clubs feel good.

The rest of Russian clubs have regular practice. Yes, the foreign players want to be with their families in this challenging time. But most of European countries and USA have even more dangerous situation, so they won’t be able to come back without a quarantine.

On Covid-19 prevention

Thanks to social media, the fans can stay connected even now. VTB League office keeps on working, most of the employees work from home due to safety reasons. Nowadays hygiene is important: wash your hands, avoid public places, use antiseptics and strengthen one’s immunity. Let’s follow the news and hope for positive developments

On cyber-league

We’ve already had a cyber-league under VTB League with more than 200 participants. With this forced break, we’re planning to invite fans of e-basketball to another championship. Maybe VTB League players will participate. The format will be announced soon.