The decision was prompted by the uncertainty as to how the coronavirus will develop over the coming weeks, and the international dimension of the Cybathlon – over 25 of the teams that have registered come from Asia and Italy, areas badly hit by the virus.

At the Cybathlon, people with disabilities compete to master everyday challenges using assistive technology. As preparations have been in full swing for several months, ETH Zurich deeply regrets having to postpone the event and any inconvenience that this may cause for participants. Our top priority, however, is the health of the teams, employees, visitors and numerous volunteers. Now that a new date has been decided, we hope that all those involved can plan and reorganise accordingly. Media accreditations that have been confirmed and admission tickets that have been purchased will remain valid.

In view of the rising incidence of coronavirus, the Federal Council has categorised the situation in Switzerland as “special” in terms of the country’s Epidemics Act, and banned events involving more than 1,000 people until at least 15 March. ETH Zurich expects 6,000 spectators per day at the Cybath-​lon. After consultation with the relevant health authorities, ETH Zurich, together with the Cybathlon Organising Committee, has decided to postpone this major international event from the beginning of May to 19-​20 September 2020.