15 February 2021

Commercial Bank Qatar Masters will be held without spectators: QGA

By Armstrong Vaz

DOHA (QAT): This year’s Commercial Bank Qatar Masters will be held without spectators, according to the event promoters Qatar Golf Association (QGA).

The decision not to have fans was to follow the guidelines of Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) so that a safe environment is ensured for every stakeholders with QGA led by its President Hassan Al Naimi and Secretary General Fahad Al Naimi are working overtime to make it a success.

The Local Organising Committee (LOC) in consultation with the MoPH have decided to have no fans with an intent to keep the event safe for everybody.

“The event will go ahead without the spectators. the Golf Village, which was traditionally part of the event, will not be there,” said Mike.

The European Tour event will take place at Education City Golf Course from March 11 to 14.

“All the players, caddies, officials and all other people accompanying the European Tour, including the official media team, will be operating from ‘CBQ Qatar Masters medical bubble’,” said Mike Shouriey, Technical Director at QGA.

It will be the second year in succession the event will be held at the course designed by Jose Maria Olazabal.

“We will have to follow MoPH guidelines and adhere to European Tour protocols. QGA is working with MoPH and European to make the event safe for everybody associated with the tournament.”

The golf entourage will also undergo COVID-19 test 72 hours in their respective country before boarding the plane to Qatar.

“Around 500-600 people will be in Qatar for the event,” added Mike.

“On arrivals, they will be tested at the Hamad International Airport. If they are are found negative, the players, caddies and officials will be shifted to their respective hotels.”

The LOC members, volunteers, contractors and hospitality staff will also undergo tests.

QGA along with MoPH are working out modalities to accommodate a limited number of VIP guests for the event.

“We will know the exact number of VIP’s during the event and the protocols that will to be followed at the prize distribution in the coming days,” said Mike.