Netherlands’ live events return to normalcy ahead of iGB Live! and iGB Affiliate

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he drop in the number of COVID-19 positive tests in the Netherlands and the consequent reduction in the number of patients requiring hospital treatment, coupled with the speed of the country’s COVID-19 vaccination program, has prompted a significant relaxation of the rules relating to the staging of indoor events.

This latest news from the Dutch government has encouraged the igaming and Affiliate communities preparing to attend the co-located iGB Live! and iGB Affiliate Amsterdam at the RAI, Amsterdam which will be held from September 28 through October 1.

Naomi Barton, Portfolio Director responsible for iGB Live, said: “We have been in close contact with the senior team at the RAI, who in turn have been liaising closely with the Dutch authorities. The positive news for the events sector and for our two co-located shows is that the government has sanctioned the use of a coronavirus entry pass system. This means that live events can return to normal with no social distancing, no face covering requirements, and no limits on attendance beyond the normal capacity.

“The pass works using the CoronaCheck app which demonstrates if a visitor has either tested negatively, been fully vaccinated against, or has recovered from COVID-19. In a parallel development, the hospitality sector, including restaurants, pubs, and other catering outlets, has also fully reopened.

“Developments in the Netherlands are extremely positive and will be welcomed by everyone who is planning to participate in iGB Live! and the iGB Affiliate Summit later in the autumn. A sentiment survey carried out in May showed that more than 70% of our customers were planning to travel to Amsterdam. I’m certain that number will now rise on hearing this latest news.

“The team is working flat out to make 2021 a memorable event with brand-new show features and content including the iGB SLOTS activation, the iGB eSports Streamer Cube, and the MATCH!/VIP Programme. The announcement made by the Dutch government has ensured that 2021 will offer truly landmark editions of iGB Live! and iGB Affiliate Amsterdam.”

The relaxation of the rules also extends to travel to and from the Netherlands with the EU Digital COVID Certificate going live as of July 1. The certificate provides proof that a person has been either vaccinated against, tested negative for, or recovered from COVID-19. Other initiatives implemented or being developed elsewhere in the world can be linked to the certificate, which facilitates safe and free movement within the EU. Media reports suggest that talks are advancing well on the mutual recognition of an NHS app and the EU’s Digital COVID Certificate.