The chief executive of Wimbledon has insisted that the tournament does all it possibly can to protect the environment but concedes a protest could occur over the coming two weeks.
This year numerous sporting events have been disrupted by Just Stop Oil protesters who are demanding the government stop licensing all new oil, gas and coal projects. Incidents have taken place during the World Snooker Championships and the Ashe’s cricket event, as well as others. Their tactics usually involve running onto the ground and throwing some sort of powder.
Amid the threat, Wimbledon chief Sally Bolton has confirmed that there has been an uplift in security at the gates and more detailed bag searches. Furthermore, there will also be random body searches conducted with the help of intelligence from relevant authorities. There will also be Behaviors Detective Officers (BHO) on the scene who have also worked at the tournament in the past.
“Every year we work with the Met Police and other agencies to review our security arrangements in line with the relevant threat picture,” Bolton told reporters on Monday.
“We appeal to those attending the championships to respect the fact that others want to view the tennis enjoyably, quietly, and in a safe environment.”
Whilst there has been a notable increase in security protocols, Bolton admits that it still may not be enough. However, she states that The All England Club is doing all it can to be environmentally conscious in the hope that it will be enough to stop potential protesters.
“We are very conscious about being environmentally positive. It shapes a lot of things we do here (at Wimbledon),” she said. “Whether that’s nothing going to landfill, only using renewable electricity, looking to the future and removing all gas from the estate. We are committed to that agenda.”
However, critics have taken aim at Wimbledon’s ongoing partnership with Barclays. In an open letter signed by the likes of Richard Curtis and Emma Thomson, the bank has been accused of benefiting financially from ‘climate chaos.’
When quizzed about the partnership, Bolton insisted that the deal is benefitting many people but didn’t comment on the accusation that they are capitalizing on the climate crises.
“They are a fantastic new partner and some of their involvement with us is making a significant donation to the foundation through which will be able to help people in need around the UK,” she said.
Federer to visit, no Saudi involvement on the cards
In a separate development, it has been confirmed that Roger Federer will be attending a special presentation on Tuesday that recognizes his record title tally. Serena Williams was invited to attend a similar presentation in her honor but is unable to do so due to pregnancy.
“Roger will be with us tomorrow and we will have a special celebratory moment on Center Court before play starts. it to honor him for being the man to hold the most singles titles at Wimbledon.” Said Bolton.
Federer is an eight-time champion at Wimbledon but his record could be equaled by Novak Djokovic this year if the Serbian wins the trophy.
The Wimbledon chief has also played down the prospect of establishing ties with Saudi Arabia’s investment fund (PIF). Both the ATP and WTA have been in discussions over a possible partnership which has divided opinion among some in the sport.
“The Saudi investment is speculation about what the Tour might do so I don’t think it is for me to speculate on speculations. That’s not a matter for me. We don’t seek external investment. In terms of Saudi engagement with the tournament, that is not something in our minds at all.” She concluded.
