bbc--2020-04-17--Detroit City FC: The football team rising from America’s biggest ruin

Trevor James has seen a lot in his footballing life .
In the 1980s , he played for the LA Lazers , a short-lived indoor soccer cousin to the famed LA Lakers , attracting a similarly glitzy Hollywood crowd to the city 's Forum arena .
In the 1990s , as part of Sir Bobby Robson 's scouting network , he picked apart England 's World Cup 1990 opposition before being deployed to watch Brazilian phenomenon Ronaldo in preparation for Barcelona 's then world-record £13.2m purchase .
In the 2000s , the arrival of David Beckham transformed the LA Galaxy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into a travelling circus .
He has even barked orders at the likes of Rod Stewart , Ronnie Wood and Andrew Ridgeley as manager of Stewart 's LA Exiles - a team of ex-pat musicians , actors and artists who have made California home .
But he has never seen anything like Detroit City .
`` It is a unique club , '' he tells BBC Sport .
`` There is a mentality that is Detroit against the world .
They want independence because that is what Detroit is .
Detroit City FC @ @ @ @ @ @ @ really good things come out of that .
And occasionally we 'll do things that upset people . ''
`` People are desperate !
There 's no work out there , man ; they 're selling everything !
It 's down to a dime on the dollar . ''
That was how a hitch-hiker described the situation in Detroit to journalist Hunter S Thompson in his 1972 book Fear and Loathing on the Campaign Trail .
Nearly half a century on and now Detroit 's demise is news to no-one .
The journey @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the whole United States in 1960 to the largest municipal bankruptcy in the country 's history in 2013 was propelled by the decline of the American car industry , as jobs , people and money - public and private - haemorrhaged away .
In many parts all that was left behind was a mausoleum to America 's motor age .
In the depths of that depression , one of the few modern growth industries involved sightseeing tours to Michigan Central Station , whose vaulted marbled ticket halls lie strewn with rubble , or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2,000-capacity Gothic- style cinema that sits silent and sunlit through a shattered roof .
Perhaps most poignant were the everyday scenes ; libraries lined with books , classrooms filled with desks and police stations with evidence still pinned to the walls - everything essentially in place , but long devoid of human life .
Keyworth Stadium could have gone the same way .
President Roosevelt opened it in 1936 , promising it would `` last for many years '' as his nation attempted to lift its sights from `` bare food and lodging @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
By 2015 the grandstands sagged , the locker rooms needed repair and the floodlights were broken .
It has had an unlikely saviour .
On a chilly evening last October , a 1,000-strong mob , many clad in black , collected outside a bar on Christopher Street half a mile away from the stadium .
Among their number were some of the hundreds who had raised $ 741,250 ( £594,000 ) as part of a community investment scheme to renovate Keyworth .
They had dedicated their time and money for evenings like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ maroon flags hoisted aloft , they marched to watch Detroit City play Milwaukee Torrent and lift the NPSL Members Cup .
In total , the crowd numbered 5,720 .
That is an entirely usual gate for Detroit City , but utterly unprecedented numbers for the fourth tier of American soccer , where attendances are often in the hundreds .
For reference , their average crowd last year would place them comfortably in the top half of the second-tier USL Championship and was greater than plenty of clubs in England 's League One drew @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is one half of the story , though .
The other is the volume of their support .
Detroit 's own chief executive Sean Mann describes the club 's fans as `` rabid and notorious '' .
And he means it entirely as a compliment .
For while Mann and four friends founded the club in 2012 - after long nights drinking and deliberating in a basement bar Mann designed around a Bristol boozer he frequented during his time studying for a degree in the UK - it is the fans on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It began before the team had even set foot on the pitch .
Brothers Ken and Gene Butcher - long denied an outlet for their football passion - appeared at Detroit 's first try-outs armed with flags , drums , smoke bombs , a few friends and a determination to make noise that would be heard far beyond Keyworth .
`` We just attacked unapologetically on every level , to bolster our team however we could , to try and get some bite out of other people .
We just went full @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2015 interview .
At Detroit 's first game , when the first goal went in , they passed around smuggled flares like sparklers at a Bonfire party .
`` Everyone learned that day how bad sulphur is for your lungs , and how hot they are in your hands , '' Ken reflected .
`` We marched out and did n't think we would ever be allowed back again . ''
But they were .
In the meantime their full-blooded , volcanic support attracted heat online and more and more members on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Football was a family flame passed on by his grandfather , an Italian immigrant to Buenos Aires who grew up in the shadow of La Bombonera - Boca Juniors ' home - before moving to Detroit .
Dion , like Gene and Ken , was at Detroit 's first game .
Unlike them , he was unsure whether the atmosphere was going to be superclasico or damp squib .
`` I went to that first game not knowing what to expect , '' he tells BBC Sport .
`` But I was like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' .
`` In fact , I was a little intimidated .
I did n't know what to make of it .
It was n't until the first game of the 2013 season that I went over and got involved in that supporter section .
`` It was just making that first step to not be too intimidated by 2,000 people chanting , letting off smoke bombs and wearing skeleton masks . ''
The skeleton emblem is part of a Goth-tinge that is a hallmark of Detroit City 's hardcore .
Its aim @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We use a lot of skulls and skeletons and black and smoke , '' explains Degennaro .
`` Everyone would call Detroit a dead city .
And part of what we do as a group is embrace criticisms people have of us and turn that into something that ca n't hurt us .
`` If Detroit is a dead city , we are going to be the walking dead .
We are going to show there are still things happening here . ''
Despite their fearsome look , changing things for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Northern Guard - the main Detroit ultra group that the Butchers and Degennaro are part of .
Their mission statement lists two things they hate .
The first is Ohio .
Quite why is unclear to an outsider .
Degennaro says it is a running national joke and has the sales figures to back himself up .
In their early days , the Northern Guard produced a special scarf that featured Ohio directly after another four-letter word .
At the MLS All-Star Game in 2014 , a travelling Detroit City fan waved one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a crowd cut-away shot on national television .
It has remained the Northern Guard 's most popular piece of merchandise ever since , selling all around the country .
The second thing they hate is hate itself .
Last year , the club and its supporters raised more than $ 26,000 ( £20,800 ) for the Ruth Ellis Center which cares for at-risk LGBTQ youth in Detroit as part of their annual Pride Raiser month .
Back in 2014 , they were the first sports team in America to dedicate their shirts to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Previous causes have included Freedom House , which protects asylum-seekers fleeing persecution , support for those affected by the lack of clean water in nearby Flint , and a campaign to end to gun violence .
What matters to the fans , matters to the club .
Without a multi-million dollar television deal , without a billionaire benefactor , the club relies on the turnstiles ticking over and creating a connection that draws fans back time after time .
A shared morality rather than a business triangulation motivates Mann , though .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He is clear .
`` The causes we embrace as an ownership , and where our supporters are at , are typically more social justice orientated , left-leaning causes , '' he adds .
`` Sport has a disproportionate , almost unjustifiable , role in our communities .
We employ as many people as an oversized , fast casual restaurant , but we 're in the newspaper , we 're on TV regularly .
`` So , with everything going on in the world and in our country now , if we did @ @ @ @ @ @ @ things going on in our community it would be a wasted opportunity . ''
The club turns its gaze inwards as well .
Put bluntly , Detroit City FC is a very white club in a very black city .
`` I think in the early years , you had a lot of white soccer supporters coming in from the suburbs to support the team because it was this hipster , cool , fun thing to do in the city , '' explains Degennaro .
`` Where we play in Hamtramck is one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ country .
And I think over the last year or two we 're starting to see a bit more diversity in the stands , but there is always , always , always room for improvement .
We want to be involved in the community and we want them to be involved in what we are doing as well . ''
The Northern Guard has launched its own initiatives , donating equipment to local public schools , organising clean-ups , supporting foodbanks , and working with the club to distribute tickets to local people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The combination of inclusivity on one hand and riotous , raucous rejection of anything that is not Detroit City , at least for a few hours on matchday , has reversed the traditional flow of people away from the city .
`` Coming to Detroit and coming to Keyworth is kind of a pilgrimage to lower division soccer fans in United States , '' says Degennaro .
`` It is something to experience and something to see .
It 's an away day that if people can come to , they try @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the attention has been unwanted , however .
With Detroit City having proved the viability of a Detroit football team , Major League Soccer prospectors circled .
A consortium that included Dan Gilbert and Tom Gores , who between them own the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Detroit Pistons basketball teams , with combined assets worth over $ 10bn ( £8bn ) , came up with a plan to launch an all-new Detroit MLS team in 2016 .
`` Everyone assumed that would be the end of us , '' admits Mann .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as wrangling over the location of a stadium convinced MLS to look elsewhere .
Investors have approached Mann in the past about pumping money into Detroit City itself , but those offers would have fundamentally changed what Detroit City is .
He wants the character of the club retained and says : `` No-one 's really come close to that threshold of being enticing to us . ''
Detroit has seen vanity project teams come and go in the past .
The Detroit Cougars , part owned by motor scion William Clay Ford @ @ @ @ @ @ @ North American Soccer League in the 1960s .
Detroit Express signed British superstars Trevor Francis and Alan Brazil , but lasted only one year more in the 1970s .
Detroit City 's more organic development has produced deeper roots .
`` We will always show up for the club no matter what , because that 's what we 're here to do but , personally , I would have a hard time seeing us sell out to billionaires , '' Degennaro says .
`` And the type of support that I like , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ welcome at that level .
They do n't want people like me and supporters groups like us . ''
For now , no-one is coming to Detroit .
The club 's first fully professional season is stalled after just one game - a 2-0 win away to LA Force - because of the coronavirus outbreak .
Since play halted , Detroit has become a hot spot in the US outbreak , with only New York and neighbouring New Jersey suffering more cases or deaths than the state of Michigan .
State Rep. Isaac @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home of Hamtramck - was one of those to die .
English manager Trevor James arrived in January 2019 and has been tasked with overseeing the transition to the fully paid ranks .
For now , his plans for a maiden season in the third-tier National Independent Soccer Association are on ice .
More urgent than the scoresheet is the balance sheet .
The same direct reliance on matchday revenue and fans in the stands that has given the club its independent spirit has left Detroit City especially vulnerable .
Although they have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Keyworth two years ahead of schedule , around half of the club 's sponsors for this season , perhaps understandably , have not delivered their dues .
While they wait for those and government relief funds to arrive , the ownership group , led by Mann , have taken out loans against their homes to bridge the gap .
For a club that has rejoiced in defying people 's preconceptions of Detroit , it is another difficult time .
But right now Mann is not concerned about those beyond the city limits .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ was much more defensive about Detroit , selling the club as something that put the city in a positive light .
That used to be a driving factor in my life , both professionally in politics and with the soccer team .
`` But at the end of the day we are doing this for Detroiters .
We have created a special experience for people here in the city .
Our goal is always to be Detroit 's team - to have a club that resonates here in the community .
`` When @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Keyworth .
It 's going to be a hell of a party . ''
Like all good parties , it will be loud and it will be fun .
And it will probably upset a few people along the way .

Detroit City have joined the National Independent Soccer Association - part of the third tier of the America's football pyramid - for the 2020 season
Trevor James has seen a lot in his footballing life.
In the 1980s, he played for the LA Lazers, a short-lived indoor soccer cousin to the famed LA Lakers, attracting a similarly glitzy Hollywood crowd to the city's Forum arena.
In the 1990s, as part of Sir Bobby Robson's scouting network, he picked apart England's World Cup 1990 opposition before being deployed to watch Brazilian phenomenon Ronaldo in preparation for Barcelona's then world-record £13.2m purchase.
In the 2000s, the arrival of David Beckham transformed the LA Galaxy team he helped coach from global non-entity into a travelling circus.
He has even barked orders at the likes of Rod Stewart, Ronnie Wood and Andrew Ridgeley as manager of Stewart's LA Exiles - a team of ex-pat musicians, actors and artists who have made California home.
But he has never seen anything like Detroit City.
"It is a unique club," he tells BBC Sport.
"There is a mentality that is Detroit against the world. They want independence because that is what Detroit is. Detroit City FC is an independent club.
"Some really good things come out of that. And occasionally we'll do things that upset people."
"People are desperate! There's no work out there, man; they're selling everything! It's down to a dime on the dollar."
That was how a hitch-hiker described the situation in Detroit to journalist Hunter S Thompson in his 1972 book Fear and Loathing on the Campaign Trail.
Nearly half a century on and now Detroit's demise is news to no-one.
The journey from the richest city per capita in the whole United States in 1960 to the largest municipal bankruptcy in the country's history in 2013 was propelled by the decline of the American car industry, as jobs, people and money - public and private - haemorrhaged away.
In many parts all that was left behind was a mausoleum to America's motor age.
In the depths of that depression, one of the few modern growth industries involved sightseeing tours to Michigan Central Station, whose vaulted marbled ticket halls lie strewn with rubble, or the United Artists Theatre, an elaborate 2,000-capacity Gothic- style cinema that sits silent and sunlit through a shattered roof.
Detroit's Michigan Central Station, pictured in 2008, is now owned by the Ford Motor Company and is being refurbished
Perhaps most poignant were the everyday scenes; libraries lined with books, classrooms filled with desks and police stations with evidence still pinned to the walls - everything essentially in place, but long devoid of human life. external-link
Keyworth Stadium could have gone the same way. President Roosevelt opened it in 1936, promising it would "last for many years" as his nation attempted to lift its sights from "bare food and lodging" to "enjoyment and recreation".
By 2015 the grandstands sagged, the locker rooms needed repair and the floodlights were broken. It has had an unlikely saviour.
Almost $750,000 was raised by the local community to renovate Detroit's ground
On a chilly evening last October, a 1,000-strong mob, many clad in black, collected outside a bar on Christopher Street half a mile away from the stadium. Among their number were some of the hundreds who had raised $741,250 (£594,000) as part of a community investment scheme to renovate Keyworth. They had dedicated their time and money for evenings like this.
Together, with gold and maroon flags hoisted aloft, they marched to watch Detroit City play Milwaukee Torrent and lift the NPSL Members Cup.
In total, the crowd numbered 5,720. That is an entirely usual gate for Detroit City, but utterly unprecedented numbers for the fourth tier of American soccer, where attendances are often in the hundreds.
For reference, their average crowd last year would place them comfortably in the top half of the second-tier USL Championship and was greater than plenty of clubs in England's League One drew last season.
The volume of people is one half of the story, though. The other is the volume of their support.
Detroit's own chief executive Sean Mann describes the club's fans as "rabid and notorious". And he means it entirely as a compliment.
For while Mann and four friends founded the club in 2012 - after long nights drinking and deliberating in a basement bar Mann designed around a Bristol boozer he frequented during his time studying for a degree in the UK - it is the fans on the stands who have since defined its identity. It began before the team had even set foot on the pitch.
Brothers Ken and Gene Butcher - long denied an outlet for their football passion - appeared at Detroit's first try-outs armed with flags, drums, smoke bombs, a few friends and a determination to make noise that would be heard far beyond Keyworth.
"We just attacked unapologetically on every level, to bolster our team however we could, to try and get some bite out of other people. We just went full bore," Ken said in a 2015 interview. external-link
At Detroit's first game, when the first goal went in, they passed around smuggled flares like sparklers at a Bonfire party.
"Everyone learned that day how bad sulphur is for your lungs, and how hot they are in your hands," Ken reflected.
"We marched out and didn't think we would ever be allowed back again."
A trip to Detroit's Keyworth ground is described as "a kind of a pilgrimage for lower-division US soccer fans"
But they were. In the meantime their full-blooded, volcanic support attracted heat online and more and more members on the ground.
Dion Degennaro was one. Football was a family flame passed on by his grandfather, an Italian immigrant to Buenos Aires who grew up in the shadow of La Bombonera - Boca Juniors' home - before moving to Detroit.
Dion, like Gene and Ken, was at Detroit's first game. Unlike them, he was unsure whether the atmosphere was going to be superclasico or damp squib.
"I went to that first game not knowing what to expect," he tells BBC Sport. "But I was like 'oh man, this is really cool'.
"In fact, I was a little intimidated. I didn't know what to make of it. It wasn't until the first game of the 2013 season that I went over and got involved in that supporter section.
"It was just making that first step to not be too intimidated by 2,000 people chanting, letting off smoke bombs and wearing skeleton masks."
The skeleton emblem is part of a Goth-tinge that is a hallmark of Detroit City's hardcore. Its aim is representation as much as intimidation.
Fans have re-appropriated the description of their hometown as a 'dead city'
"We use a lot of skulls and skeletons and black and smoke," explains Degennaro.
"Everyone would call Detroit a dead city. And part of what we do as a group is embrace criticisms people have of us and turn that into something that can't hurt us.
"If Detroit is a dead city, we are going to be the walking dead. We are going to show there are still things happening here."
Despite their fearsome look, changing things for the better is a driving force among the Northern Guard - the main Detroit ultra group that the Butchers and Degennaro are part of.
Their mission statement lists two things they hate.
The first is Ohio. Quite why is unclear to an outsider. Degennaro says it is a running national joke and has the sales figures to back himself up.
In their early days, the Northern Guard produced a special scarf that featured Ohio directly after another four-letter word. At the MLS All-Star Game in 2014, a travelling Detroit City fan waved one as a cameraman framed him up in a crowd cut-away shot on national television. It has remained the Northern Guard's most popular piece of merchandise ever since, selling all around the country.
The second thing they hate is hate itself.
Detroit fans have helped support various community-focused projects
Last year, the club and its supporters raised more than $26,000 (£20,800) for the Ruth Ellis Center external-link which cares for at-risk LGBTQ youth in Detroit as part of their annual Pride Raiser month.
Back in 2014, they were the first sports team in America to dedicate their shirts to LGBTQ inclusion in a competitive match.
Previous causes have included Freedom House, which protects asylum-seekers fleeing persecution, support for those affected by the lack of clean water in nearby Flint, and a campaign to end to gun violence.
What matters to the fans, matters to the club. Without a multi-million dollar television deal, without a billionaire benefactor, the club relies on the turnstiles ticking over and creating a connection that draws fans back time after time.
A shared morality rather than a business triangulation motivates Mann, though. The big-league teams might prefer apolitical opacity. He is clear.
"The causes we embrace as an ownership, and where our supporters are at, are typically more social justice orientated, left-leaning causes," he adds.
"Sport has a disproportionate, almost unjustifiable, role in our communities. We employ as many people as an oversized, fast casual restaurant, but we're in the newspaper, we're on TV regularly.
Mann has resisted offers of outside investment for fear the club's the character would be lost
"So, with everything going on in the world and in our country now, if we didn't use that to highlight the positive things going on in our community it would be a wasted opportunity."
The club turns its gaze inwards as well. Put bluntly, Detroit City FC is a very white club in a very black city.
"I think in the early years, you had a lot of white soccer supporters coming in from the suburbs to support the team because it was this hipster, cool, fun thing to do in the city," explains Degennaro.
"Where we play in Hamtramck is one of the most diverse communities in the country. And I think over the last year or two we're starting to see a bit more diversity in the stands, but there is always, always, always room for improvement. We want to be involved in the community and we want them to be involved in what we are doing as well."
The Northern Guard has launched its own initiatives, donating equipment to local public schools, organising clean-ups, supporting foodbanks, and working with the club to distribute tickets to local people who might not otherwise come to matches.
The combination of inclusivity on one hand and riotous, raucous rejection of anything that is not Detroit City, at least for a few hours on matchday, has reversed the traditional flow of people away from the city.
"Coming to Detroit and coming to Keyworth is kind of a pilgrimage to lower division soccer fans in United States," says Degennaro.
Detroit's ruined buildings
"It is something to experience and something to see. It's an away day that if people can come to, they try to make it."
Some of the attention has been unwanted, however. With Detroit City having proved the viability of a Detroit football team, Major League Soccer prospectors circled.
A consortium that included Dan Gilbert and Tom Gores, who between them own the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Detroit Pistons basketball teams, with combined assets worth over $10bn (£8bn), came up with a plan to launch an all-new Detroit MLS team in 2016.
"Everyone assumed that would be the end of us," admits Mann.
But the momentum behind the bid petered out as wrangling over the location of a stadium convinced MLS to look elsewhere.
Investors have approached Mann in the past about pumping money into Detroit City itself, but those offers would have fundamentally changed what Detroit City is.
He wants the character of the club retained and says: "No-one's really come close to that threshold of being enticing to us."
Detroit's home ground was opened by Franklin Delano Roosevelt in 1936, during his second campaign for president
Detroit has seen vanity project teams come and go in the past. The Detroit Cougars, part owned by motor scion William Clay Ford, lasted only two years in the North American Soccer League in the 1960s. Detroit Express signed British superstars Trevor Francis and Alan Brazil, but lasted only one year more in the 1970s. Detroit City's more organic development has produced deeper roots.
"We will always show up for the club no matter what, because that's what we're here to do but, personally, I would have a hard time seeing us sell out to billionaires," Degennaro says.
"And the type of support that I like, I would say it's not really welcome at that level. They don't want people like me and supporters groups like us."
For now, no-one is coming to Detroit.
The club's first fully professional season is stalled after just one game - a 2-0 win away to LA Force - because of the coronavirus outbreak.
Since play halted, Detroit has become a hot spot in the US outbreak, external-link with only New York and neighbouring New Jersey suffering more cases or deaths than the state of Michigan. State Rep. Isaac Robinson - who represented Detroit City's home of Hamtramck - was one of those to die.
English manager Trevor James arrived in January 2019 and has been tasked with overseeing the transition to the fully paid ranks. For now, his plans for a maiden season in the third-tier National Independent Soccer Association are on ice.
More urgent than the scoresheet is the balance sheet. The same direct reliance on matchday revenue and fans in the stands that has given the club its independent spirit has left Detroit City especially vulnerable.
James also played under Sir Bobby Robson during his time at Ipswich Town
Although they have paid back the investors who helped renovate Keyworth two years ahead of schedule, around half of the club's sponsors for this season, perhaps understandably, have not delivered their dues.
While they wait for those and government relief funds to arrive, the ownership group, led by Mann, have taken out loans against their homes to bridge the gap.
For a club that has rejoiced in defying people's preconceptions of Detroit, it is another difficult time. But right now Mann is not concerned about those beyond the city limits.
"I think 10 years ago I was much more defensive about Detroit, selling the club as something that put the city in a positive light. That used to be a driving factor in my life, both professionally in politics and with the soccer team.
"But at the end of the day we are doing this for Detroiters. We have created a special experience for people here in the city. Our goal is always to be Detroit's team - to have a club that resonates here in the community.
"When we get through this and get back to Keyworth. It's going to be a hell of a party."
Like all good parties, it will be loud and it will be fun. And it will probably upset a few people along the way.


bbc--2020-04-17--Coronavirus: Is pandemic being used for power grab in Europe?

Some of Europe 's leaders have been accused of taking advantage of a public health crisis to clamp down on dissent and bolster their power .
As Turkey arrests hundreds for social media posts and Russians are threatened with jail for anything considered fake news , there are fears that democracy is being jeopardised in Poland and that it has been swept away in Hungary .
BBC correspondents assess whether coronavirus is being used as cover for a power grab .
Hungary 's powerful Prime Minister Viktor Orban stands accused at home and abroad of using the coronavirus crisis to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ uniting the country .
First his Fidesz government declared a state of danger on 11 March , winning valuable time to prepare for the pandemic .
But it then used its majority in parliament to extend that indefinitely , so the government now has the power to rule by decree for as long as necessary and can decide itself when the danger is over .
Critics speak of an end to Hungary 's democracy , but the justice minister insists the `` Authorisation Act '' will expire at the end of the emergency @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Is it the end of democracy ?
Constitutional law expert Prof Zoltan Szente warns the pandemic could easily be used to maintain the government 's extraordinary powers .
As it is the exclusive power of the government to decide when to end the state of danger , he says parliament has actually `` committed suicide '' by waiving its right of control over the government .
In theory there are still three checks on Viktor Orban 's power : • Parliament remains in session unless the pandemic stops it But Mr Orban @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in parliament and all by-elections and referendums are postponed until the end of the emergency .
The Constitutional Court is already packed with Orban favourites but the one remaining thorn in the prime minister 's side is the largely independent judiciary .
The ruling party needs to maintain its two-thirds majority in parliament to appoint a new Supreme Court president at the end of 2020 .
Then Mr Orban 's power would be almost unassailable .
Turkey 's combative leader , Recep Tayyip Erdogan , does not need to use the coronavirus outbreak @ @ @ @ @ @ @ much already .
That is the view of human rights campaigners here .
`` There is such a centralised system there 's no need to have a further power grab , '' says Emma Sinclair-Webb , Turkey Director for Human Rights Watch .
However , she says there was an opportunistic attempt to `` test the water '' with proposals to increase control on social media companies .
They were `` buried deep '' in a bill dealing mainly with economic measures to cushion the impact of the virus .
The aim , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ social media platforms to submit to government control and censorship '' .
The draft amendments were suddenly dropped but Ms Sinclair-Webb expects them to make a comeback in the future .
Turkey 's government is determined to control the narrative during the crisis .
Hundreds have been arrested for `` provocative posts '' about Covid-19 on social media .
Few doctors have dared to speak out .
`` Hiding the facts and creating a monopoly of information unfortunately became the way this country is being ruled , '' says Ali Cerkezoglu of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nurses and health workers have got used to it in the past 20 years . ''
Lawyer Hurrem Sonmez worries the outbreak is a moment of opportunity for President Erdogan .
`` Society , and the opposition , are weaker because of the pandemic , '' says Ms Sonmez , who has represented defendants in free speech cases .
`` Everyone has the same agenda - the virus .
The priority is to survive .
There is a serious concern that the situation can be misused by this government . ''
• A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ myself ?
• AVOIDING CONTACT : The rules on self-isolation and exercise • STRESS : How to look after your mental health Back in January , the Kremlin thought it had everything worked out .
It would rewrite the Russian Constitution , primarily to allow Vladimir Putin to stand for two more terms in office .
Then it would hold a triumphant `` national vote '' on 22 April for Russians to back the changes .
The president 's critics called it a `` constitutional coup '' , but it seemed a done @ @ @ @ @ @ @ put everything on hold .
President Putin has had to postpone the ballot : after all , how can you call people to come out and vote in the middle of a pandemic ?
The Kremlin 's problem now is that , if and when the ballot does take place , endorsing a new Constitution may well be the last thing on Russian minds .
Coronavirus lockdown is set to decimate the economy here , with predictions of a two-year long recession and millions of job losses .
Russians tend to blame local @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , for their everyday problems .
But history shows that when people here experience acute personal economic pain , they turn their ire on their country 's leader .
Such pain now seems inevitable .
That may explain why the Kremlin leader recently delegated power to regional governors to fight the coronavirus : now they share the responsibility .
President Putin 's supporters , including state media , will argue that in a national crisis Russia requires strong , stable leadership more than ever - in other words : that the Putin era @ @ @ @ @ @ @ critics , they have already accused the authorities of using the pandemic to tighten control .
A new law rushed through parliament imposes tough punishments on people convicted of spreading what is deemed to be false information about coronavirus : fines equivalent to $ 25,000 or up to five years in prison .
There are concerns about surveillance systems being rolled out to enforce quarantine .
Lockdown also means that opposition protests can not take place : mass gatherings are currently banned to prevent the spread of the virus .
Poland : Is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ power ?
Poland 's governing party is being accused of recklessly endangering lives by pushing ahead with May presidential elections during the pandemic .
President Andrzej Duda , a government ally , has seen his poll numbers rise during the pandemic and is clear favourite to win .
The ruling Law and Justice party argues it is constitutionally obliged to hold the election and a postal-only vote is the safest solution under lockdown .
That is its preferred option , but it is also backing a proposal to change the constitution to allow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , as long as he can not seek re-election .
The opposition says a postal vote risks voters , postal workers and election staff .
The EU and Poland 's own electoral commission have also raised concerns about holding the vote .
There is a legal way to wait , the opposition insists , by declaring a state of natural disaster that bans elections whilst extraordinary measures are in force and for 90 days afterwards .
The government says declaring extraordinary measures would make it liable for crippling compensation claims .
If elections @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would not be fair , human rights groups say , because candidates have suspended campaigning while the incumbent still enjoys widespread media coverage helping the government and visiting health care workers .
If the election were postponed , Poland may well be in the midst of a recession , and Mr Duda 's chances of re-election could be substantially diminished .
Were an opposition candidate elected , the new president 's power of veto could significantly disrupt the government 's ability to push through its programme for the next three and a half @ @ @ @ @ @ @ book example of how to gain the biggest benefit from the crisis and to remain in power , '' Malgorzata Szuleka , a lawyer for the Helsinski Foundation for Human Rights in Warsaw told the BBC .

Covid-19, though, has put everything on hold. President Putin has had to postpone the ballot: after all, how can you call people to come out and vote in the middle of a pandemic? The Kremlin's problem now is that, if and when the ballot does take place, endorsing a new Constitution may well be the last thing on Russian minds.


bbc--2020-04-17--Extreme piercing: A festival of self-inflicted pain

Warning : Some readers will find the images of piercing disturbing An ancient pre-harvest festival in India 's state of West Bengal , in which men pierce themselves with iron rods and hooks , was cancelled this year due to coronavirus .
But Sahar Zand - who attended the event last April - reports that many local people believe that without this show of devotion to the Hindu deity , Shiva , crops are bound to fail .
It is early morning one day in mid-April , almost exactly a year ago .
On the bank of the river Ganges @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sitting in a circle under the shade of a big tree .
They are wearing bright red and are carefully sharpening iron rods , called bursees , each about 2ft ( 60cm ) long .
The sharper the rod , the lower the risk of injury in the ritual that awaits them later in the day .
The oldest member of the group , Sandos , 26 , is the only one in this group who has taken part in the self-harming rituals before .
Over the years he has had his lips @ @ @ @ @ @ @ belly and back impaled , he tells me .
Yes , it was painful , he says .
`` But pain is temporary , it 's the reward that will last .
We all have to pay a price to get what we want . ''
The reward they are seeking is a good harvest .
In the village of Krishnadevpur in West Bengal , the pre-harvest festival of Gajan , coinciding with the end of the Bengali calendar , is the biggest celebration of the year .
Participating is the ultimate way @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Hindu deity Shiva , who they believe is responsible for granting them a favourable climate for their crops .
`` Once we start the rituals , '' Sandos tells me , `` our Lord Shiva will possess us , and we gain his superhuman strength and courage . ''
Listening carefully is Rahul , who says he has been pushing his parents to let him take part since he was 10 .
He 's now 15 and this year , after a series of poor harvests , his parents have reluctantly agreed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that is why we are all suffering , he is punishing us , '' Rahul says , as the rest of the group nods in agreement .
`` So to protect ourselves and our families from his rage , it is now more important than ever to prove our devotion to him . ''
Once the iron rods are sharpened , one by one , the men dive into the holy river to purify their bodies and souls .
For the last six years , 22-year-old Ajoy has also taken part in Gajan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has grown sceptical .
`` When I 'm not seeing any results , why would I continue to harm myself ? ''
he asks .
He takes me to his family farm .
Rows of rotten vegetables stretch before me , bordered by bare mango trees and fly-infested fruits .
`` Sometimes we get no rain at all when we 're supposed to and our crops die in a drought , other times we get such untimely and heavy rain that our fields flood and our harvest gets ruined , '' he says @ @ @ @ @ @ @ intense .
The problem is climate change , Ajoy tells me , not Shiva 's rage , and once he finishes studying Bengali literature at a college in Kolkata , he has decided to look for a job elsewhere .
Later in the day , as the festival is about to begin , hundreds of people fill an enclosure the size of a football field : there are women in colourful saris , excited children running around , bonfires , the smell of local snacks and spices , and loud music booming from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the centre of the field with another 100 or so men who , like them , are wearing nothing but a red cloth around their waist .
`` Shiva is the most powerful deity , '' they chant , `` and all his devotees must participate in his worship . ''
They have been chanting this mantra for hours - it is a crucial part of a process that is meant to bring them into a state of trance .
They must fast on the day of the festival but may drink @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all thought to reduce the risk of injury .
As Rahul dances around the priest who will shortly be impaling the devotees , his eyes are wide open but he looks right through me .
The crowd starts tightening as the impaling begins , the women ululating .
I turn away involuntarily .
When I look back I see that a couple of devotees , still chanting Shiva 's mantra , already have several iron rods in their flesh - in their cheeks , ears , lips , nose , chest , arm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Sandos 's sharpened rods and rubs it against a banana for lubrication .
Muttering a mantra , he begins to pull on Sandos ' cheek .
Quickly he pierces it with the rod .
It goes in one side and out the other .
Sandos frowns and his whole body trembles .
The priest penetrates the same cheek with two more rods , leaving them all in .
Rahul is next .
He steps forward , his eyes tightly shut .
The priest starts with his earlobe .
Next his lower lip @ @ @ @ @ @ @ does his upper lip .
Finally , the priest makes two wounds , each an inch deep , in Rahul 's chest , leaving the rods in .
A small teardrop is the only sign of pain I see on his face .
He tries to continue chanting Shiva 's mantra but his words come out muffled - the iron rods sticking out of his face clearly restrict his facial movements .
Another devotee picks Rahul up on his shoulders and starts parading around in a circle with the others , watched by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I do not see a single drop of blood in the entire process .
But the festival is not quite over yet .
The devotees are now preparing for Charak Puja , the last and arguably most gruesome part of the festival .
For this closing ritual , self-torture is taken to the next level .
A few experienced devotees will swing on a carousel , hanging from nothing more than two hooks pushed through the skin on their backs .
First in line is Suman .
He 's 34 and says he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ every year since he was 12 .
At first the priest refuses to impale him , arguing he has no more space left on his back .
But when Suman angrily insists , the priest slaps his lower back , grabs a handful of his flesh , stretches it as far he can , then forces the hook through .
Suman 's fists clench tightly , his eyes clamp shut , and the veins on his forehead look like they 're about to pop .
He faints .
They pour water on him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Then he gets up , holding on to another devotee for balance , who directs him on to a platform to get on the carousel .
They tie the rope to the hook .
Suman is counterbalanced by another devotee on the other side of the carousel , both rotating as the rest of the attendees cheer them on .
They display no sign of pain .
Suman is smiling and interacting with the crowd underneath him .
After a few rounds , the carousel slows down and Suman grabs one of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up to receive Shiva 's blessing .
Suman and his counterpart hold a crying baby for one rotation , then return it to its parents and grab another .
`` As long as the devotees are up there , they are not themselves , but they 're Shiva in disguise , '' one mother tells me .
`` When my lord has my baby , I have nothing to worry about . ''
After about 10 minutes , the carousel stops and Suman gets off , replaced by another devotee .
`` The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I felt spiritually connected to god , I felt like a bridge between him and the rest of the community , '' he tells me with hooks still in his back .
I ask him what he thinks would happen if Gajan was to stop taking place .
`` It 'll be the end of the world , '' Suman responds without hesitation .
`` Lord Shiva 's rage will destroy us all . ''
But this April , as the community was preparing for Gajan , the Indian government imposed a lockdown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ did not take place - perhaps for the first time in thousands of years .
Listen to Sahar Zand 's radio documentary Walking on a Hot Coil for Heart and Soul , on the BBC World Service

The oldest member of the group, Sandos, 26, is the only one in this group who has taken part in the self-harming rituals before. Over the years he has had his lips, ears, arms, chest, belly and back impaled, he tells me. Yes, it was painful, he says. "But pain is temporary, it's the reward that will last. We all have to pay a price to get what we want."


bbc--2020-04-17--Ethiopia and Eritrea: A wedding, birth and baptism at the border

A peace deal between neighbours Ethiopia and Eritrea ending two decades of tension has transformed the border areas , reports the BBC 's Rob Wilson .
Sat in a ground-floor flat in the city of Adigrat , northern Ethiopia , Zefer Sultan is having her hair braided ready for the baptism of her first child .
Playing on the TV in the corner of the room is her wedding video from a year before , which is keeping them entertained .
`` Our wedding was almost at the same time as when the border was opened .
It was a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Late 2018 was a time of jubilation for many living close to the Ethiopia-Eritrea border .
A new peace deal between the previously warring countries had been agreed , and movement across the border permitted for the first time in 20 years .
Families who had been separated for this time were reunited , and events such as Zefer 's wedding brought friends and relatives together to celebrate once again .
`` Now I hope our son 's baptism will be even better .
I hope lots of family from both Eritrea and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The ceremony is set to take place in Zalambessa , where the families of Zefer and her husband Zeray come from .
It is situated just on the Ethiopian side of the border .
The town saw heavy fighting during the 1998-2000 war and suffered from economic stagnation for the following 18 years as the border was closed and heavily militarised on both sides .
Everyone in the town has a story of separation .
'We had to watch the funeral from a distance' Important family events such as baptisms and weddings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cases , people were not able to say goodbye to their loved ones as they were taking their final breaths .
Abrahaley Gebremariam , a local Ethiopian photographer , was unable to reach his ailing grandmother in Eritrea .
`` We had to watch the funeral and remembrance services from a distance , we had no choice but to grieve her death from here , '' he says , pointing out her village just across the border .
`` But we were with her in spirit . ''
Abrahaley has been able to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ celebrate religious festivals and visit his family .
`` I am the flesh and blood of both people , '' he says .
This sentiment oozes through the borderlands .
It would be easy to imagine there might be animosity between Ethiopians and Eritreans in the area ; as many as 100,000 people were killed during the conflict and many more were forced from their homes .
But the social and cultural ties have proved to be deeper , and have endured the forced separation that followed the war .
Gebrehiwet Kahsay , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , explains why .
`` The people were not in conflict , the problem was the leaders , '' he says .
`` The people never betrayed each other . ''
Zalambessa started to go through a transformation when the checkpoints opened again in 2018 .
Unrestricted movement brought about a business boom as trade and travel multiplied .
Local businesses reaped the benefits .
`` It became a bustling trade hub with hundreds of vehicles travelling back and forth .
Peace and reconciliation enabled me to work in both countries as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just months after the border opened up , the official checkpoints began to close once again .
No official reason was given at the time , and almost all of the checkpoints are still closed to all trade and traffic .
While Ethiopia and Eritrea both say they are trying to resolve the situation , no formal agreement has been reached .
Nonetheless there has been a fundamental and lasting change .
The border itself has been demilitarised and is not patrolled as it was before , so informal movement on foot continues @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ago .
You may also be interested in : • Ethiopia 's Ambo city : 'From freedom to repression under Abiy Ahmed' The bustling Saturday market in Zalambessa is one place where this is apparent .
It has been given a new lease of life since the peace agreement , when Eritreans started coming to buy goods .
And now while vehicles are restricted at the checkpoint , shoppers continue to walk across , carrying what they can in their arms .
For one Eritrean woman this meant tying a large wooden table @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to get home .
But she was not downhearted .
Before the border opened , she says she had to travel five hours to get to the nearest market in Eritrea .
At Zalambessa Health Centre , the border opening saw a surge in people coming across from Eritrea to receive services .
While the numbers have fallen since the border checkpoints closed again , some still make the difficult journey on foot .
Everyone who comes to the clinic is treated equally .
`` We have no reasons to treat Eritreans any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ provide medical care to anyone first and foremost because they are humans , '' says acting director Dr Samrawit Berhane .
Patients tell the staff that in many cases it is closer than the nearest clinic in Eritrea , and some say they receive better treatment too .
Samrawit explains that they have also noticed a number of women coming specifically for family planning services and contraceptives .
They say that in Eritrea , their husbands must grant permission for such services , and collections of contraceptives must be made together .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ come here so that they can avoid these restrictions , '' says Samrawit .
'We are brothers and inseparable' As you drive north towards Zalambessa , the vast and rocky landscape is awe-inspiring .
But just as striking is the amount of construction work under way .
Peppered all along the road are half-built houses and blocks of flats , huge piles of gravel and sand , wooden scaffolding reaching up to the sky .
When the border opened in 2018 , entrepreneurs came from all over the country to invest along the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a self-assured and straight-talking Eritrean man who left his country after being detained as a political prisoner for 13 years .
He has the look of a man who knows a hard day 's work .
`` It felt like things had brightened up overnight and I did n't waste any time before buying a plot of land , '' he says .
Fisehaye knows Zalambessa well , having been born just across the border .
Now his business venture is a three-storey hotel in the town .
`` After it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be an expression of my desire for the two people to be together .
So I plan to name it The Two Brothers ' Hotel , '' he explains .
`` It 's to say we are brothers and we are inseparable . ''
The day of Zefer 's son 's baptism starts at 03:00 as they make their way up to the cliff-top church overlooking the borderlands between Ethiopia and Eritrea .
As the ceremony begins , relatives from both sides of the border gather at the house belonging to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the hill .
Zeray is keen to introduce one guest in particular , one of his cousins who has come from Massawa in Eritrea , as she did when he married in 2018 .
`` The fact that she has been with me from my wedding until now shows you love , culture and unity , '' he says .
Although she did not want to disclose her name , she explains how the 2018 peace deal has changed her life .
`` Before , we had no news of who was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now we have learned about our dead and we are happy to meet those who are still alive , '' she says .
`` It 's a massive difference .
It 's like the difference between the earth and the sky . ''
Despite many sharing similar feelings about the new-found , but unofficial , freedom of movement , the closure of border checkpoints continues to affect all areas of life .
Zefer explains that there were actually fewer Eritreans at the baptism than at their wedding .
Many chose not to come @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would be allowed to cross the border .
`` It 's worrying , '' she adds .
`` If the checkpoints are closed , we ca n't move forward . ''
Listen to Rob Wilson 's radio documentary Rebirth at the Border from the BBC World Service Or watch his report on YouTube

"Before, we had no news of who was dead and who was alive. But now we have learned about our dead and we are happy to meet those who are still alive," she says.


bbc--2020-04-17--Coronavirus: AI steps up in battle against Covid-19

It feels as if a superhuman effort is needed to help ease the global pandemic killing so many .
Artificial intelligence may have been hyped - but when it comes to medicine , it already has a proven track record .
So can machine learning rise to this challenge of finding a cure for this terrible disease ?
There is no shortage of companies trying to solve the dilemma .
Oxford-based Exscientia , the first to put an AI-discovered drug into human trial , is trawling through 15,000 drugs held by the Scripps research institute , in California .
And @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by Viagra co-inventor Dr David Brown , has repurposed its AI system developed to find drugs for rare diseases .
The system is divided into three parts that : • trawl through all the current literature relating to the disease • study the DNA and structure of the virus • consider the suitability of various drugs '' I have been doing this for 45 years and I have got three drugs to market , '' Dr Brown told BBC News .
But AI is proving much faster .
`` It has taken several @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need and we have even got new information in the last few days , so we are now at a critical mass , '' Dr Brown said .
`` The algorithms ran over Easter and we will have output for the three methods in the next seven days . ''
Healx hopes to turn that information into a list of drug candidates by May and is already in talks with labs to take those predictions into clinical trials .
For those working in the field of AI drug discovery , there are two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • find an entirely new drug but wait a couple of years for it to be approved as safe for use But , Dr Brown said , it was extremely unlikely one single drug would be the answer .
And for Healx , that means detailed analysis of the eight million possible pairs and 10.5 billion triple-drug combinations stemming from the 4,000 approved drugs on the market .
Prof Ara Darzi , director of the Institute of Global Health Innovation , at Imperial College , told BBC News : `` AI remains one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ perceptible solution but there is a fundamental need for high quality , large and clean data sets .
`` To date , much of this information has been siloed in individual companies such as big pharma or lost in the intellectual property and old lab space within universities .
`` Now more than ever there , is a need to unify these disparate drug discovery data sources to allow AI researchers to apply their novel machine-learning techniques to generate new treatments for Covid-19 as soon as possible . ''
In the US , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Labs , Harvard Medical School , Stanford Network Science Institute and biotech start-up Schipher Medicine is also on the search for drugs that can quickly be repurposed as Covid-19 treatments .
Normally , just getting them all to work together would take `` a year of paperwork '' , said Schipher 's chief executive Alif Saleh .
But a series of Zoom calls with a `` group of people with a unprecedented determination to get things done , not to mention a lot of time of their hands '' , speeded things up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ normally take half a year .
Everyone dropped everything , '' he said .
Already , their research has yielded surprising results , including : • the suggestion the virus may invade brain tissues , which may explain why some people lose their sense of taste or smell ) • the prediction it may also attack the reproductive system of both men and women Schipher Medicine combines AI with something it calls network medicine - a method that views a disease via the complex interactions among molecular components .
`` A disease phenotype @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gene or protein on its own - nature is not that simple - but the result of a cascading effect in a network of interactions between several proteins , '' Mr Saleh said .
Using network medicine , AI and a fusion of the two has led the consortium to identify 81 potential drugs that could help .
`` AI can do a little better , not only looking at higher order correlations but little bits of independent information that traditional network medicine might miss , '' said Prof Albert-Laszlo Barabasi .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they needed all three approaches .
`` Different tools look at different perspectives but together are very powerful '' he added .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : How do I protect myself ?
• AVOIDING CONTACT : The rules on self-isolation and exercise • STRESS : How to look after your mental health Some AI companies are already claiming to have isolated drugs that could help .
BenevolentAI has identified Baricitinib , a drug already approved for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis , as a potential treatment to prevent the virus infecting lung @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a controlled trial with the US National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases .
Meanwhile , scientists from South Korea and the US using deep learning to investigate the potential for commercially available antiviral drugs have suggested atazanavir , used to treat Aids , could be a good candidate .
Other companies are using AI for other purposes , such as analysing scans to ease the burden on radiologists and help predict which patients are most likely to need a ventilator .
Chinese technology giant Alibaba , for example , announced an algorithm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seconds , with 96 % accuracy .
But some experts warn AI systems are likely to have been trained on data about advanced infections , making them less effective at detecting early signs of the virus .
There needed to be a global effort from policymakers to persuade the big pharmaceutical companies to join forces with smaller drug-data stores , academics and research charities to pool data resources , Prof Darzi said .
`` The time has never been more important for drug-discovery data to open up its secrets for AI to help @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he said .

"It has taken several weeks to gather all the data we need and we have even got new information in the last few days, so we are now at a critical mass," Dr Brown said.


bbc--2020-04-17--Premier League clubs discuss 40-day window to finish season

Finishing the season in a 40-day window was one of the scenarios discussed at a Premier League meeting on Friday .
Top-flight clubs remain committed to playing all 92 remaining fixtures this season but did not discuss a deadline by which action must resume .
Clubs were expected to debate a 30 June deadline to end the season but instead discussed `` possible scheduling models '' .
The Premier League said it `` remains our objective '' to complete matches but currently `` all dates are tentative '' .
The league has been suspended since 13 March because of coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to discuss the proposed 30 June deadline at Friday 's meeting but it was decided this was not the right time to do so .
A Premier League spokesperson said `` in common with other businesses and industries '' clubs were `` working through complex planning scenarios '' .
`` Today 's shareholders ' meeting provided an opportunity to discuss possible scheduling models , '' it added .
`` It remains our objective to complete the 2019-20 season but at this stage all dates are tentative while the impact of Covid-19 develops .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ teams have nine games to play , with four having 10 left .
Earlier this month the Premier League said play will only resume when `` it is safe and appropriate to do so '' .
The number of coronavirus-related deaths in the UK has since risen to more than 12,000 .
On Thursday , the government issued a further three-week lockdown to ensure social distancing and manage the spread of the virus .
BBC sports editor Dan Roan has learned Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden spoke to Premier League bosses this week and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to start contingency planning .
But nothing will be taken forward without the green light from the government , in accordance with medical advice .
In a section on player welfare at the meeting , it was decided tests for coronavirus would have to be widely available to the public before the widespread testing of players .
When and how football resumes has been widely debated across the sport as clubs face up to financial difficulties and the logistical issues caused by a late finish to the season .
The contracts of numerous @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those of Chelsea midfielder Willian and Tottenham defender Jan Vertonghen .
If the season is extended beyond that date there is a possibility clubs will lose players before fixtures are concluded .
World governing body Fifa is aware of the problem and is looking at alternatives such as rolling contract extensions .
The 30 June date is also an issue for clubs around agreed changes in kit manufacturers .
Liverpool are due to change shirt manufacturers from New Balance to Nike , while Watford and Newcastle are also set to use new suppliers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how the season should be dealt with 39 % of respondents wanted to 'declare the season null and void ' , with 28 % opting to 'finish the season no matter how long it takes ' .
Uefa has pleaded for leagues to give them time to return with their own proposals for ending the season across Europe .
European football 's governing body will meet next week to further discuss plans which include potentially using the Champions League final to end the 2019-20 season on 29 August .
Lower down the football @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sent a letter to clubs recommending they return to training on 16 May at the earliest .
The EFL has not discussed a league restart date with the government but told clubs : `` Our planning needs to be agile enough to allow us to be as prepared as possible for a start at relatively short notice . ''
'Eight weeks enough to complete season' In the end , the 30 June deadline demand some were so keen to push earlier in the week was never raised .
The feeling that today 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ widen the debate and the Premier League desire for a united front was strong enough to dissuade a discussion that would have extended the chat , which was wrapped up in under two hours .
Individual clubs will go away to continue discussions with players about wage cuts and deferrals and wait to see what comes out of two Uefa meetings next week .
Before their next scheduled meeting on 1 May , lessons should also be absorbed from Germany .
Some Bundesliga players have already returned to their clubs for training under @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home and returning to shower after picking up some food .
A Bundesliga meeting on Thursday will offer guidance on if and when this can be stepped up following the revised regulations announced by German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Wednesday .
It will start to offer the Premier League some kind of clarity over the major discussions today , which centred around different start and end dates to play the remainder of the 2019-20 campaign .
At the moment , it is felt eight weeks will be enough from returning to training in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nine rounds of games to complete the season .
Germany 's experience will help frame whether that prospect is a realistic one .
In the meantime , as has been the case since matches were first called off five weeks ago , the only certainty is uncertainty .
What about other European leagues ?
The body that represents Europe 's top leagues says when football does return it will `` no doubt '' be played behind closed doors .
At present , the state of play in the continent 's top leagues is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ returned to training but the season is still suspended until 30 April .
Spain 's La Liga : There will be no training until emergency measures in place are lifted and La Liga president Javier Tebas says resuming play on 28 May is a best-case scenario .
France 's Ligue 1 : French football authorities are considering restarting Ligue 1 on 3 or 17 June , with the latter date the more likely , according to sports daily L'Equipe .
Italy 's Serie A : The Italian Football Federation ( IFF ) hopes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the start of May , in preparation for the season to resume .

Last updated on .From the section Premier League
Premier League football has been suspended since 13 March
Finishing the season in a 40-day window was one of the scenarios discussed at a Premier League meeting on Friday.
Top-flight clubs remain committed to playing all 92 remaining fixtures this season but did not discuss a deadline by which action must resume.
Clubs were expected to debate a 30 June deadline to end the season but instead discussed "possible scheduling models".
The Premier League said it "remains our objective" to complete matches but currently "all dates are tentative".
The league has been suspended since 13 March because of coronavirus.
It is understood some clubs expected to discuss the proposed 30 June deadline at Friday's meeting but it was decided this was not the right time to do so.
A Premier League spokesperson said "in common with other businesses and industries" clubs were "working through complex planning scenarios".
"Today's shareholders' meeting provided an opportunity to discuss possible scheduling models," it added.
"It remains our objective to complete the 2019-20 season but at this stage all dates are tentative while the impact of Covid-19 develops."
Sixteen of the 20 Premier League teams have nine games to play, with four having 10 left.
Earlier this month the Premier League said play will only resume when "it is safe and appropriate to do so". The number of coronavirus-related deaths in the UK has since risen to more than 12,000.
On Thursday, the government issued a further three-week lockdown to ensure social distancing and manage the spread of the virus.
BBC sports editor Dan Roan has learned Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden spoke to Premier League bosses this week and signalled the government was content for them to start contingency planning.
But nothing will be taken forward without the green light from the government, in accordance with medical advice.
In a section on player welfare at the meeting, it was decided tests for coronavirus would have to be widely available to the public before the widespread testing of players.
When and how football resumes has been widely debated across the sport as clubs face up to financial difficulties and the logistical issues caused by a late finish to the season.
The contracts of numerous players expire on 30 June, including those of Chelsea midfielder Willian and Tottenham defender Jan Vertonghen.
If the season is extended beyond that date there is a possibility clubs will lose players before fixtures are concluded.
World governing body Fifa is aware of the problem and is looking at alternatives such as rolling contract extensions.
The 30 June date is also an issue for clubs around agreed changes in kit manufacturers. Liverpool are due to change shirt manufacturers from New Balance to Nike, while Watford and Newcastle are also set to use new suppliers.
In a BBC Sport vote on how the season should be dealt with 39% of respondents wanted to 'declare the season null and void', with 28% opting to 'finish the season no matter how long it takes'.
Uefa has pleaded for leagues to give them time to return with their own proposals for ending the season across Europe.
European football's governing body will meet next week to further discuss plans which include potentially using the Champions League final to end the 2019-20 season on 29 August.
Lower down the football pyramid in England, the EFL has sent a letter to clubs recommending they return to training on 16 May at the earliest.
The EFL has not discussed a league restart date with the government but told clubs: "Our planning needs to be agile enough to allow us to be as prepared as possible for a start at relatively short notice."
'Eight weeks enough to complete season'
BBC Sport's Simon Stone
In the end, the 30 June deadline demand some were so keen to push earlier in the week was never raised.
The feeling that today's meeting was not the right time to widen the debate and the Premier League desire for a united front was strong enough to dissuade a discussion that would have extended the chat, which was wrapped up in under two hours.
Individual clubs will go away to continue discussions with players about wage cuts and deferrals and wait to see what comes out of two Uefa meetings next week.
Before their next scheduled meeting on 1 May, lessons should also be absorbed from Germany.
Some Bundesliga players have already returned to their clubs for training under social distancing rules - getting changed at home and returning to shower after picking up some food.
A Bundesliga meeting on Thursday will offer guidance on if and when this can be stepped up following the revised regulations announced by German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Wednesday.
It will start to offer the Premier League some kind of clarity over the major discussions today, which centred around different start and end dates to play the remainder of the 2019-20 campaign.
At the moment, it is felt eight weeks will be enough from returning to training in order to regain match fitness and play nine rounds of games to complete the season.
Germany's experience will help frame whether that prospect is a realistic one.
In the meantime, as has been the case since matches were first called off five weeks ago, the only certainty is uncertainty.
What about other European leagues?
The body that represents Europe's top leagues says when football does return it will "no doubt" be played behind closed doors.
At present, the state of play in the continent's top leagues is:
Germany's Bundesliga: Clubs have returned to training but the season is still suspended until 30 April.
Spain's La Liga: There will be no training until emergency measures in place are lifted and La Liga president Javier Tebas says resuming play on 28 May is a best-case scenario.
France's Ligue 1: French football authorities are considering restarting Ligue 1 on 3 or 17 June, with the latter date the more likely, according to sports daily L'Equipe.
Italy's Serie A: The Italian Football Federation (IFF) hopes to begin testing players for the virus at the start of May, in preparation for the season to resume.


bbc--2020-04-17--Olympics & Paralympics in 2021 'very unrealistic without coronavirus vaccine'

It is `` very unrealistic '' the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics will take place next year unless a coronavirus vaccine has been found by then , says a leading global health scientist .
Professor Devi Sridhar said the development of effective and affordable treatment would be a `` game-changer '' in whether the postponed Games take place .
The International Olympic Committee and Tokyo 2020 organisers held an executive board meeting this week at which they reiterated their hope the Games can be the `` light at the end of the tunnel '' .
However , IOC coordination commission chair @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the rescheduled Olympics , which are due to take place from 23 July-8 August 2021 .
Speaking at a news conference on Thursday , he said it could have an impact in terms of `` mass gatherings or testing of athletes '' and that the IOC would be be guided by the World Health Organization .
Professor Sridhar , who is chair of global health at the University of Edinburgh , said the chances of Tokyo 2020 going ahead as planned `` all depends on a vaccine '' .
`` We 're hearing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ possible .
I had thought it would be a year or a year and a half away but we 're hearing possibly this could come sooner , '' she said .
`` If we do get a vaccine within the next year then actually I think that ( Olympics ) is realistic .
The vaccine will be the game-changer - an effective , affordable , available vaccine .
`` If we do n't get a scientific breakthrough then I think that looks very unrealistic .
`` I think they 've made the right @ @ @ @ @ @ @ put it back a year and re-evaluate ' .
`` And I think that is the only way you can deal with this situation - to take stock , to be hopeful , to support our scientific community and our NHS community to do what they can , because science in the long-term is going to be the way we get out of this . ''
A nationwide state of emergency has been declared in Japan until 6 May because of the country 's worsening coronavirus outbreak .
The IOC and Tokyo 2020 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have set up a joint steering committee to deliver the postponed Olympics , led by Coates and Tokyo 2020 president Yoshiro Mori .
Mori said : `` Soon after the postponement of the Tokyo 2020 Games on 24 March , Tokyo 2020 established a 'New Launch ' taskforce and we have been working since then to create a structure capable of overcoming these unprecedented challenges .
`` We believe that today 's new step is an important achievement in advancing over the coming year what we have prepared over the past five to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ work closely with all stakeholders to ensure the success of the Games . ''
BBC Sport has contacted the IOC for comment .

The Tokyo Olympics are now scheduled to take place from 23 July-8 August 2021
It is "very unrealistic" the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics will take place next year unless a coronavirus vaccine has been found by then, says a leading global health scientist.
Professor Devi Sridhar said the development of effective and affordable treatment would be a "game-changer" in whether the postponed Games take place.
The International Olympic Committee and Tokyo 2020 organisers held an executive board meeting this week at which they reiterated their hope the Games can be the "light at the end of the tunnel".
However, IOC coordination commission chair John Coates acknowledged Covid-19 could still affect the rescheduled Olympics, which are due to take place from 23 July-8 August 2021.
Speaking at a news conference on Thursday, he said it could have an impact in terms of "mass gatherings or testing of athletes" and that the IOC would be be guided by the World Health Organization.
Professor Sridhar, who is chair of global health at the University of Edinburgh, said the chances of Tokyo 2020 going ahead as planned "all depends on a vaccine".
"We're hearing from the scientists that this could be possible. I had thought it would be a year or a year and a half away but we're hearing possibly this could come sooner," she said.
"If we do get a vaccine within the next year then actually I think that (Olympics) is realistic. The vaccine will be the game-changer - an effective, affordable, available vaccine.
"If we don't get a scientific breakthrough then I think that looks very unrealistic.
"I think they've made the right decision in saying 'we are going to put it back a year and re-evaluate'.
"And I think that is the only way you can deal with this situation - to take stock, to be hopeful, to support our scientific community and our NHS community to do what they can, because science in the long-term is going to be the way we get out of this."
A nationwide state of emergency has been declared in Japan until 6 May because of the country's worsening coronavirus outbreak.
The IOC and Tokyo 2020 local organising committee announced on Thursday they have set up a joint steering committee to deliver the postponed Olympics, led by Coates and Tokyo 2020 president Yoshiro Mori.
Mori said: "Soon after the postponement of the Tokyo 2020 Games on 24 March, Tokyo 2020 established a 'New Launch' taskforce and we have been working since then to create a structure capable of overcoming these unprecedented challenges.
"We believe that today's new step is an important achievement in advancing over the coming year what we have prepared over the past five to six years. We will continue to work closely with all stakeholders to ensure the success of the Games."
BBC Sport has contacted the IOC for comment.


bbc--2020-04-17--Murray & Djokovic build their perfect player and discuss the 'GOAT'

With no tennis for the foreseeable future , Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic are at a bit of a loose end .
The two met on Instagram Live to discuss their careers , the mental and physical effects of tennis and the debate about the GOAT of tennis .
They also built their perfect tennis player from those playing now ... Novak Djokovic : Nick , for his height , has the best serve I 've seen .
Andy Murray : I 'd say exactly the same .
If you gave Kyrgios Isner 's height ...
I 've seen Nick @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up ?
!
AM : Yeah , he 's done absolutely nothing on his shoulder and yet he 's sending down ridiculous serves .
ND : I 'd go with you .
Playing against you on any surface was always a challenge but out of the three biggest rivalries I had , I found it the hardest to serve against you because everything was coming back .
AM : And I 'd say you .
You rarely missed a return .
ND : The Thor from Tandil - Del Potro .
I love @ @ @ @ @ @ @ let 's go Delpo .
AM : I 'm going Rafa .
There may be a small period in his career where it let him down in a couple of matches , but very rarely would that have been the shot that contributed to him losing matches .
ND : I would take you .
Consistency , the fact that you do n't miss much , you make the life of your opponent very difficult .
I just could n't penetrate through that side when I played against you ... AM : I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ few times .
ND : Roger is one of the most complete players ever to play the game .
We all know how great he is .
What I think is probably a bit underrated is his ability to come up with serve and volleys at the most challenging times in a match against us that are great returners .
He takes away your time .
AM : I 'd agree with that .
There might be guys that hit certain volleys better but all-round , Federer .
He has the touch and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ few guys that has come up with that shot under pressure .
ND : It 's obvious he has champions mentality , what he 's managed to produce over the years on all surfaces , the way he was bouncing back from numerous injuries .
I think he was the most injured out of us four .
Every second season , he has got something for several months and he managed to come back and build his game .
The resilience , the intensity he brings - when you see him jumping around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ already intimidates you .
A mental giant and a physical giant .
AM : I would say that , consistently , Rafa has been mentally the strongest .
There 's times where you would have been ahead of him but over an entire career , even from when he was very young , he 's always been unbelievably strong mentally .
Even when he was 18 , 19 years old , which is so rare for the guys coming through .
That 's normally the part that takes the longest .
ND : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He has always been a warrior on the court .
I would say Ferrer or Dominic Thiem , but give Ferrer an edge because he 's been on the tour longer .
Dominic is going to last for hopefully many more years .
AM : If it were physical potential , I 'd say Gael Monfils .
What he can do physically is a joke .
It 's unreal , the stuff I 've seen him doing .
But physically , I would take you .
Although that 's not a big bicep @ @ @ @ @ @ @ finally , the two debated how you judge the tennis GOAT .
ND : It 's a good question .
It 's a combination of Slams , the weeks at number one and the Masters events ... AM : What about head-to-head ?
ND : Absolutely , yeah .
I think Grand Slams would probably stand out but it 's really hard to say .
I 've had this opinion since forever - I do n't go into the conversation of comparing generations .
AM : I completely agree with that but , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ best players are playing in the same generation .
Nobody competes with Rafa on clay , Roger 's record at Wimbledon is the best , your record on hard court is the best .
When people ask me what my toughest match is , who are the hardest guys to play against , I feel like I 'm competing against the best hard court player ever , the best clay court player and the best grass court player .

Last updated on .From the section Tennis
Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray have met 36 times on the ATP Tour, with Djokovic leading the head-to-head 25-11
With no tennis for the foreseeable future, Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic are at a bit of a loose end.
The two met on Instagram Live to discuss their careers, the mental and physical effects of tennis and the debate about the GOAT of tennis.
They also built their perfect tennis player from those playing now...
Serve - Nick Kyrgios & John Isner
Australian Nick Kyrgios and American John Isner are yet to win a Grand Slam title
Novak Djokovic: Nick, for his height, has the best serve I've seen.
Andy Murray: I'd say exactly the same. If you gave Kyrgios Isner's height... I've seen Nick warming up...
ND: He warms up?!
AM: Yeah, he's done absolutely nothing on his shoulder and yet he's sending down ridiculous serves.
Return - Andy Murray & Novak Djokovic
Andy Murray beat Novak Djokovic to win his first Wimbledon in 2013 - he won again in 2016 and also claimed the 2012 US Open title
ND: I'd go with you. Playing against you on any surface was always a challenge but out of the three biggest rivalries I had, I found it the hardest to serve against you because everything was coming back.
AM: And I'd say you. You rarely missed a return.
Forehand - Juan Martin del Potro & Rafael Nadal
Both Juan Martin del Potro and Rafael Nadal have won the US Open
ND: The Thor from Tandil - Del Potro. I love the forehand of Fernando Gonzales, but let's go Delpo.
AM: I'm going Rafa. There may be a small period in his career where it let him down in a couple of matches, but very rarely would that have been the shot that contributed to him losing matches.
Backhand - Andy Murray & Novak Djokovic
Novak Djokovic has won 17 Grand Slam singes titles and is the world number one, while Andy Murray is ranked outside the top 100 following his injury problems
AM: Backhand, I'm taking you...
ND: I would take you. Consistency, the fact that you don't miss much, you make the life of your opponent very difficult. I just couldn't penetrate through that side when I played against you...
AM: I think you penetrated me pretty well a few times.
Volley - Roger Federer
Roger Federer is a 20-time Grand Slam champion with eight Wimbledon titles
ND: Roger is one of the most complete players ever to play the game. We all know how great he is.
What I think is probably a bit underrated is his ability to come up with serve and volleys at the most challenging times in a match against us that are great returners. He takes away your time.
AM: I'd agree with that. There might be guys that hit certain volleys better but all-round, Federer. He has the touch and feel and he's one of the few guys that has come up with that shot under pressure.
Strongest mentally - Rafael Nadal
Rafael Nadal has won a record 12 French Open titles
ND: It's obvious he has champions mentality, what he's managed to produce over the years on all surfaces, the way he was bouncing back from numerous injuries.
I think he was the most injured out of us four. Every second season, he has got something for several months and he managed to come back and build his game.
The resilience, the intensity he brings - when you see him jumping around before you walk onto court, it already intimidates you. A mental giant and a physical giant.
AM: I would say that, consistently, Rafa has been mentally the strongest. There's times where you would have been ahead of him but over an entire career, even from when he was very young, he's always been unbelievably strong mentally.
Even when he was 18, 19 years old, which is so rare for the guys coming through. That's normally the part that takes the longest.
Physical - David Ferrer & Novak Djokovic
David Ferrer turned professional in 2000, while Novak Djokovic followed suit three years later
ND: I love Ferrer's fighting spirit. He has always been a warrior on the court.
I would say Ferrer or Dominic Thiem, but give Ferrer an edge because he's been on the tour longer. Dominic is going to last for hopefully many more years.
AM: If it were physical potential, I'd say Gael Monfils. What he can do physically is a joke. It's unreal, the stuff I've seen him doing.
But physically, I would take you. Although that's not a big bicep that you're showing off!
And finally, the two debated how you judge the tennis GOAT.
ND: It's a good question. It's a combination of Slams, the weeks at number one and the Masters events...
AM: What about head-to-head?
ND: Absolutely, yeah. I think Grand Slams would probably stand out but it's really hard to say. I've had this opinion since forever - I don't go into the conversation of comparing generations.
AM: I completely agree with that but, in reality, all three of the best players are playing in the same generation.
Nobody competes with Rafa on clay, Roger's record at Wimbledon is the best, your record on hard court is the best.
When people ask me what my toughest match is, who are the hardest guys to play against, I feel like I'm competing against the best hard court player ever, the best clay court player and the best grass court player.


bbc--2020-04-17--US athletes to conduct own tests in 'virtual drug testing' trial

A group of American athletes will provide samples for drug-testing in a `` virtual session '' as part of a `` unique '' programme being trialled by the United States Anti-Doping Agency ( Usada ) .
Social-distancing measures have meant a reduction in traditional random sample-collection , with some countries halting testing entirely .
That has led to fears that cheats may look to exploit the situation .
But Usada 's trial will mean officials can follow the process remotely via video conference technology - with a camera placed outside the athlete 's bathroom door .
Five-time Olympic swimming champion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Noah Lyles and Emma Coburn are among the stars who have volunteered to take part .
`` We felt bad for clean athletes '' , Travis Tygart , the chief executive of Usada , told BBC Sport .
`` How unfair is it to be questioned just because there 's a period of time , through no fault of your own , that testing is n't able to be accomplished at the level that it was ?
`` Out of that frustration the team here said 'we have to give some solution @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
How does it work ?
Athletes are sent drug testing kits and testers call them during a one-hour daily window over Zoom or Facetime .
`` We have them unseal the kits , they 'll go into the restroom when they 're ready to urinate , they 'll show us the restroom , put the camera right outside the door , and we time how long it takes , '' says Tygart .
`` For obvious privacy reasons , we 're not actually watching as we do for a normal in-person @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which they have to use to ensure the sample provided is in line with body temperature .
`` We can see that being done , they then come back , we record the sample numbers and then they seal and package it up for collection and analysis . ''
Blood samples are also provided with the athletes using a plastic pin-prick tool that they administer themselves by pressing it against their upper arm .
`` We know the gold standard is no-notice in-person tests , but we said 'look there 's a problem @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we believe we 've put in very strong safeguards '' said Tygart .
`` The temperature monitor , timing how long it takes to urinate , and we can also compare the steroid profile in the urine to previous samples , and their blood sample . ''
'Athletes are willing to go the extra mile' The shutdown of domestic sport has meant there is now no in-competition testing , and the number of out-of-competition tests has been cut back drastically .
But by going online , the hope is that the battle against @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` This is a volunteer programme , '' says Tygart .
`` These athletes are willing to go the extra mile and volunteer to demonstrate clean sport matters .
`` They said 'we 're happy to do it because we 're clean and we agree this can help anti-doping ' , and we were overwhelmed by the response frankly .
`` This is not only an effort to solve the short-term problem of reduced , if not zero testing happening in some parts of the world .
`` It 's also an effort @ @ @ @ @ @ @ easier and more convenient for athletes and reduce the cost so we can have more tests .
`` We 've had great conversations about this with other anti-doping agencies in Norway , Germany and Canada , so we would hope the World Anti-Doping Agency ( Wada ) embrace it and roll it out in other parts of the world .
`` We know some athletes will go to great lengths even when fully operational programmes are in place .
So we would be naive and foolish to think some are n't trying to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Here in the US we 've made it clear we 're only doing mission-critical testing , and that 's a reduction in our otherwise fully-operational programme .
`` So finding ways to test in safe and healthy environments like virtual testing is one solution to try to make sure that those who might try to get away with it do n't . ''

Five-time Olympic champion Katie Ledecky is taking part in the trial
A group of American athletes will provide samples for drug-testing in a "virtual session" as part of a "unique" programme being trialled by the United States Anti-Doping Agency (Usada).
Social-distancing measures have meant a reduction in traditional random sample-collection, with some countries halting testing entirely.
That has led to fears that cheats may look to exploit the situation.
But Usada's trial will mean officials can follow the process remotely via video conference technology - with a camera placed outside the athlete's bathroom door.
Five-time Olympic swimming champion Katie Ledecky, and runners Allyson Felix, Noah Lyles and Emma Coburn are among the stars who have volunteered to take part.
"We felt bad for clean athletes", Travis Tygart, the chief executive of Usada, told BBC Sport.
"How unfair is it to be questioned just because there's a period of time, through no fault of your own, that testing isn't able to be accomplished at the level that it was?
"Out of that frustration the team here said 'we have to give some solution, and have to reinvent ourselves'."
How does it work?
Athletes are sent drug testing kits and testers call them during a one-hour daily window over Zoom or Facetime.
"We have them unseal the kits, they'll go into the restroom when they're ready to urinate, they'll show us the restroom, put the camera right outside the door, and we time how long it takes," says Tygart.
"For obvious privacy reasons, we're not actually watching as we do for a normal in-person collection, but we include a thermometer which they have to use to ensure the sample provided is in line with body temperature.
"We can see that being done, they then come back, we record the sample numbers and then they seal and package it up for collection and analysis."
Blood samples are also provided with the athletes using a plastic pin-prick tool that they administer themselves by pressing it against their upper arm.
"We know the gold standard is no-notice in-person tests, but we said 'look there's a problem we have to solve', so we believe we've put in very strong safeguards" said Tygart.
"The temperature monitor, timing how long it takes to urinate, and we can also compare the steroid profile in the urine to previous samples, and their blood sample."
'Athletes are willing to go the extra mile'
The shutdown of domestic sport has meant there is now no in-competition testing, and the number of out-of-competition tests has been cut back drastically. But by going online, the hope is that the battle against performance-enhancing drugs can still be continued.
"This is a volunteer programme," says Tygart.
"These athletes are willing to go the extra mile and volunteer to demonstrate clean sport matters.
"They said 'we're happy to do it because we're clean and we agree this can help anti-doping', and we were overwhelmed by the response frankly.
"This is not only an effort to solve the short-term problem of reduced, if not zero testing happening in some parts of the world.
"It's also an effort to see long-term can we make it easier and more convenient for athletes and reduce the cost so we can have more tests.
"We've had great conversations about this with other anti-doping agencies in Norway, Germany and Canada, so we would hope the World Anti-Doping Agency (Wada) embrace it and roll it out in other parts of the world.
"We know some athletes will go to great lengths even when fully operational programmes are in place. So we would be naive and foolish to think some aren't trying to do that when they're significantly reduced.
"Here in the US we've made it clear we're only doing mission-critical testing, and that's a reduction in our otherwise fully-operational programme.
"So finding ways to test in safe and healthy environments like virtual testing is one solution to try to make sure that those who might try to get away with it don't."


bbc--2020-04-17--'I cried but want to be even better' - Biles on Olympic doubts and motivation

Last updated on .From the section Gymnastics The United States gymnast , 23 , was due to retire after Tokyo 2020 and was unsure if she could take another 15 months of preparations .
`` It 's a lot mentally and physically , and I doubted my ability if I could even stay on top of my game for another year , '' Biles told BBC Sport .
`` My motivation now is proving to myself that I can go another year , I can do it again , and I can hopefully be better than I was in Rio @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gymnast in World Championships history and had the chance to make the same claim at Olympic level this summer .
However , she has now had to `` reset '' her mind for another 15 months of hard work after the coronavirus pandemic forced the Tokyo showpiece to be postponed .
`` I cried , '' said Biles , `` I did n't really know where to start with the news .
`` Obviously right now there are bigger problems than having the Olympics postponed .
`` But in three months I was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` I had my mind set for four years , so how do you go from one day being told 'hey , sorry , another year ' ?
`` It 's hard to reset the calendar and the clock when you 've been preparing your whole life to be ready at this certain time .
`` So to have that set back it was just kind of crushing . ''
And Biles admitted she did then consider the notion of not continuing through to the rescheduled Olympics in July 2021 .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she said .
`` It 's hard but I think I 'm pretty strong mentally and physically so I 'll get through it just like everybody else .
`` But , I feel that I did n't come this far to just give up and I want to be the one who makes the decision if I 'm done with the sport or not . ''
At 23 , Biles describes herself as `` pretty old '' for a gymnast in the United States , where females in the sport have traditionally competed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ teens .
`` At the end of the day that is our life , that is how we make money , that is how we move forward and that 's how we 're known .
`` When I go out there to compete I put more pressure on myself than anybody else .
`` Because I know how hard I 've worked .
I want to do well .
I want to succeed . ''

Last updated on .From the section Gymnastics
Biles 'resetting' after 'crushing' Olympic Games postponement
Simone Biles, winner of four Olympic gold medals, has admitted to doubts over whether she could train an extra year for the postponed Tokyo Games - but now wants to prove she can be even better at 2021's rearranged Olympics.
The United States gymnast, 23, was due to retire after Tokyo 2020 and was unsure if she could take another 15 months of preparations.
"It's a lot mentally and physically, and I doubted my ability if I could even stay on top of my game for another year," Biles told BBC Sport.
"My motivation now is proving to myself that I can go another year, I can do it again, and I can hopefully be better than I was in Rio."
Biles is the most successful gymnast in World Championships history and had the chance to make the same claim at Olympic level this summer.
However, she has now had to "reset" her mind for another 15 months of hard work after the coronavirus pandemic forced the Tokyo showpiece to be postponed.
"I cried," said Biles, "I didn't really know where to start with the news.
"Obviously right now there are bigger problems than having the Olympics postponed.
"But in three months I was ready to clock out and be done.
"I had my mind set for four years, so how do you go from one day being told 'hey, sorry, another year'?
"It's hard to reset the calendar and the clock when you've been preparing your whole life to be ready at this certain time.
"So to have that set back it was just kind of crushing."
And Biles admitted she did then consider the notion of not continuing through to the rescheduled Olympics in July 2021.
"A little bit, yes," she said.
"It's hard but I think I'm pretty strong mentally and physically so I'll get through it just like everybody else.
"But, I feel that I didn't come this far to just give up and I want to be the one who makes the decision if I'm done with the sport or not."
Biles won four gold medals and one bronze at Rio 2016
At 23, Biles describes herself as "pretty old" for a gymnast in the United States, where females in the sport have traditionally competed for one Olympiad before retiring in their teens.
The years of hard training have taken their toll on her physically, but she feels the mental aspect will prove her biggest personal challenge.
However, it is an aspect that, if she can conquer it, could deliver better results than the four golds and one bronze medal she took home from the Rio Olympics in 2016.
"My body is already kind of breaking down at this point," she said.
"Another year of gymnastics is a lot to put on your body.
"My coaches will have me ready, but if your mind is not in it then physically you could get hurt.
"We do a lot of hard skills and you're going to really break something if you're not 100% set.
"Physically, I'm already better than Rio - so that's something positive.
"But mentally, I'll have to be on top of my game. That's going to be the hardest thing.
"I was a rookie in Rio, I'm a veteran now. In a way, your second time is almost scarier because I have a lot of expectations to try and uphold.
"We put a lot of pressure on ourselves that nobody really understands.
"At the end of the day that is our life, that is how we make money, that is how we move forward and that's how we're known.
"When I go out there to compete I put more pressure on myself than anybody else.
"Because I know how hard I've worked. I want to do well. I want to succeed."