Natalie Powell’s European Medal Hopes Dashed As GB Judo Pull-Out Of Europeans Amid COVID-19 Crisis

Natalie Powell’s hopes of winning a fourth European medal have been dashed with British Judo pulling out of this month’s Championships in the Czech Republic due to COVID-19.

The Beulah judoka was due to be part of an 18-strong GB team at the champs from 19-21 November.

But British Judo has withdrawn the whole team due to safety fears given the growing fears of the coronavirus spreading against throughout Europe.

Natalie Powell in action for GB in the -78kg category at the World Championships in Tokyo. Pic: Kiyoshi Ota/Getty Images

“The Consultation Group shaping the GB Judo Return to International Competition Risk Assessment recently met to discuss ongoing concerns around the Great Britain Delegation attending the 2020 Senior European Championships in Prague, Czech Republic from 19-21 November,” a statement said.

“Following long and difficult discussions, it was unanimously agreed that due to the ongoing high risk concerns around the Coronavirus Pandemic in the UK, in Europe, and specifically in the Czech Republic, British Judo have unfortunately taken the very difficult decision to withdraw the whole of the Great Britain Delegation from the 2020 Senior European Championships, with immediate effect.

“Rest assured, this decision was not taken lightly however, as previously communicated, the health and safety of our team members and their families is paramount.”

Powell took bronze at 2016, 2017 and 2018 European Championships.

The 30-year-old could have picked up valuable Olympic qualification points in the championships.