"Netherlands imposes strict COVID protocols ahead of the Winter Olympics; punters should note reduced risk of last-minute withdrawals for Dutch medal favorites like Jenning de Boo and Femke Kok, potentially shortening odds on Dutch speed skating podiums. Consider backing Dutch skaters in matchups but avoid long-term accumulators sensitive to team-level outbreaks."
Netherlands tightens COVID protocols as Winter Olympics approach
The Netherlands Olympic delegation has adopted strict anti-COVID measures after positive tests emerged in another national camp, ramping up precautions to protect medal contenders ahead of the Winter Games starting Friday, February 6.
Speed skating stars arrive under mask protocols
Members of the Dutch speed skating squad, including reigning 500m world champions Jenning de Boo and Femke Kok, were pictured wearing face masks on arrival in Italy. The pair are leading contenders for Olympic gold and the delegation is prioritising their health to avoid any disruption to medal chances.
Chef de Mission outlines phased response
Chef de Mission Carl Verheijen said the team is operating a phased plan to contain infections. “We're currently in phase 2, and if anything really happens, we can scale up to phase 3 or 4.
We're not shaking hands anymore, but we're giving fist bumps. We're wearing face masks in crowded areas and making sure we wash and disinfect our hands thoroughly,” he said, adding that athletes have been instructed to avoid handshakes to reduce escalation risk.
Australian positive cases spur caution but no athlete impact
The measures follow two positive cases among staff at the Australian Institute of Sport's European Training Centre in Gavirate. The individuals are not competing at the Games and containment steps are in place.
Australian Chef de Mission Alisa Camplin confirmed no athletes scheduled to compete have tested positive and that existing medical protocols are being followed, with alternative plans for arrivals to the training centre.
What this means for bettors and event odds
For punters, the Dutch stance reduces the chance of last-minute withdrawals among favourites in events such as the 500m speed skating.
That may compress odds on Dutch podium finishes and head-to-head matchups. However, bettors should remain cautious with long-term accumulators or markets sensitive to team outbreaks, where volatility remains if protocols must be escalated.
Context: COVID's Olympic history raises stakes
Organisers and teams remain wary because COVID disruptions have affected recent Games, including Paris 2024 and previous Winter Games. The Netherlands’ precautions reflect lessons learned and a desire to protect key medal prospects during a high-stakes Olympic fortnight.
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