Tottenham Hotspur's participation in this season's Europa League could be jeopardised if UK government travel restrictions prevent them from hosting a qualifying tie, according to new UEFA regulations.
The club, who finished sixth in the Premier League, must play three one-off matches starting on 17 September to reach the group stage. Under UEFA rules, if a home team cannot host due to restrictions in their country, they must propose a neutral venue or forfeit the tie.
Should the UK impose a ban on travellers from the visiting team's country after the draw, Spurs could be forced to forfeit the match and exit the competition. The government is currently reviewing travel policies amid concerns over a second wave of coronavirus, with travellers from Spain already required to quarantine for 14 days.
While such an outcome remains unlikely, the scenario highlights the complexities facing clubs in the current pandemic. Exemptions have been made in other competitions, such as Real Madrid being allowed to travel to Manchester City for their Champions League tie.
Spurs manager Jose Mourinho will hope that similar exemptions can be secured if travel restrictions impact their Europa League campaign.
