The 2020 SBD World’s Strongest Man (WSM), originally scheduled for May, has been postponed to November due to COVID-19 concerns and its rapid spread into America.
WSM, one of the world’s most popular strongman competitions has postponed its event due to Florida’s growing restrictions on mass events, replicating the world’s recent lockdown protocols in which people have been advised to self-isolate.
A World’s Strongest Man spokesperson stated: “Due to global health concerns regarding COVID-19 (coronavirus) and restrictions and advice from local, state and federal government authorities, this year’s World’s Strongest Man competition in Bradenton, Florida set to take place May 20 – 24 has been postponed. The finals will be held November 14 – 15, following qualifying rounds November 11 – 12, both on Anna Maria Island in Bradenton, Florida.
“The health and safety of our competitors, fans, partners, volunteers and staff remains our top priority. We thank you for your support and patience and hope that you will be able to join us in Bradenton this November.”
The competition, which was won in 2019 by Martins Licis, joins a long list of sporting organisations who have postponed its events, with the NHL, NBA, and MLB yet to announce a date to restart its seasons.
WSM finds itself in the fortunate situation that it only needs to host a stand-alone competition, hence why rescheduling has been easier for the IMG organised event.
Insider Insight: It was inevitable that the World’s Strongest Man had to be postponed given the current regulations implemented during the COVID-19 crisis. However, the fact that the competition has already confirmed its rescheduled date is smart from a business point of view as it provides all the tournaments sponsors, athletes and fans with clarity regarding the future of WSM.
