CAIRO - The world billiard federation UMB published a statement on its official website concerning the current situation with the COVID-19 crisis. UMB President Farouk Barki also informed the world of billiards about the status of negotiations with the PBA and the effects of the crisis on the further course of the sports season.
The message:
Dear billiard friends,
It has been some time since we updated everyone on the current issues in the world of billiards. The COVID 19 crisis has interrupted all of our lives on every level and we hope that it will come to an end soon or at least we will see a softening of the regulations regarding sporting events, social distancing etc, laid out by the World Health Organization. Until then, we must remain confident that our sport will, as much as possible, be spared from any negative effects.
The UMB was informed that the Korean Association, KBF and PBA are considering working together only for the local promotion of billiards in Korea. This is seen as a step toward a future international agreement between UMB/KBF and PBA/B&N, however, the UMB must reiterate that the situation regarding PBA/B&N has not changed, and consequently the suspension of players that participate in non-UMB recognized PBA events will remain valid. The UMB is willing to find a mutual acceptable solution between UMB/KBF and PBA/B&N. Any agreement with the PBA/B&N must include the consent of both UMB and KBF, separate agreements between PBA/B&N and KBF or PBA/B&N and the UMB are not acceptable.
The re-opening of the dialog between parties, planned to take place during the World Championship for national teams in Viersen on March 6th and 7th 2020, was cancelled due to the onset of the Corona crisis. We understand that during this crisis, the priority has been on health and safety and we are sure the opportunity to come together again, to discuss a better future and find a win-win situation, for all parties involved, will happen.
I am confident that this is everyone's wish. Perhaps this Corona imposed lockdown situation will give us all time to reflect and reconsider our positions, so that together we can overcome the impact caused by the cancellation and absence of all events. We are continually monitoring the development of the COVID-19 crisis and its effects on our sport.
We will inform you here and through other channels on a regular basis of any changes in the current situation and look forward to reaching a worldwide re-opening of sportive events.
In the meantime, we hope that all players, followers, fans and spectators across the globe are staying safe and positive in the world's effort to overcome this crisis.
With my best wishes for a promising and joint future together,
Farouk Barki
UMB President
Cairo, April 16th, 2020''