Playing golf in France allowed but health rules apply
Playing golf will be allowed in France from the first stage of deconfinement in France on May 11.
Discussions between the Ministry of Sport and the French Federation of Golf (FFG) following the Prime Minister Edouard Philippe’s speech on April 28 mean all the required conditions have now been validated by the government to allow the sport to recommence.
There will be rules to respect which will follow the health regulations, from May 11 to at least June 1. These could be extended or revised according to the evolution of the health crisis.
All golf clubs must respect three principles: barrier gestures, social distancing, and no gathering of ten people or more.
The main recommendations for golfers are:
- Players will have to keep a minimum distance of two metres between each other.
- Wearing a mask could be required in some clubs, when the player is inside, for example at the reception of the club. The club can decide.
- Players are also asked to have hydroalcoholic gel with them.
- Changing rooms, restaurants and bars will be closed. In some clubs, take-away food service may be available.
- Reservations to play are mandatory. Players wishing to take a lesson must also reserve in advance. For golfers who come for a free session of practice, they should also inform the club.
- After booking their game before arriving on site, golfers will go to the reception desk for the usual formalities.
- Golfers must arrive at the club no more than 30 minutes before their tee time.
- Players should only use their own equipment (bag, clubs, balls, trolley) and there should be no exchange of equipment between players during the game.
- It will be possible to rent a trolley if the club can ensure its disinfection. Golf carts can be used individually if the club can ensure their disinfection. Collective use will only be possible for people from the same household.
The general director of the French Federation of Golf, Christophe Muniesa, said the reopening of clubs is “an excellent news for all the clubs and players in France.”
He explained the conditions to play in the video below (the video is in French):
The new rules are also written on the website of the federation here.
