New Zealand’s three time Women’s Motocross Champion, Courtney Duncan, can’t return home due to being unable to secure a spot in Managed Isolation and Quarantine (MIQ) due to not being extended the same courtesy as other top Kiwi athletes according to Motorcycling New Zealand’s Women’s Commission.
“Courtney Duncan has successfully defended her world title for the third time this weekend, winning the 2021 FIM Women’s Motocross World Championship, yet the possibility of being stuck in Europe is looming due to New Zealand’s inefficient MIQ system,” says MNZ Women’s Commissioner, Sandra Perry.
“The fact that Courtney might be stuck in Europe is extremely problematic and it would be great to see one of New Zealand’s best motorsport competitors back home.
“Courtney has been trying to secure a place in MIQ since before leaving for Europe and has kept up the applications while competing, however, the faulty system hasn’t been forthcoming with a spot.
“What makes Courtney’s situation untenable is the fact that if she is forced to stay in Europe, her visa will expire and if that happens she will not be able to return to race in other races during the season or to defend her title next year.
“Whilst we understand other New Zealand athletes are also struggling to get home, it seems strange that higher profile sportspeople and teams don’t have the same issue.
“MNZ’s Women’s Commission would like to see all athletes representing New Zealand at world championship events treated equally, especially women competitors.
“It’s time the MIQ system was fixed,” says Mrs Perry.
Photo credit: MXGP