Racing 92's Champions Cup final plans have been plunged into turmoil after their entire squad and backroom staff were placed into immediate home isolation after nine positive tests for coronavirus.
The French club were forced to take the action just nine days before their big clash with Exeter in Bristol to halt the further spread of Covid-19.
On top of sending players, management and support staff into quarantine, the Parisians' training centre is being closed for a minimum of five days to undergo "complete decontamination of the site".
New tests will be carried out next week with the results dictating when individual and team training can resume, according to a statement released by Racing, who have not disclosed the identities of the nine players.
The Top 14 league match against La Rochelle on Saturday has been postponed, but the hope is that they will be able to undertake their fixture against Toulouse a week after before facing Exeter at Ashton Gate.
Although there is no suggestion at this stage the Champions Cup final is under threat, were more positive tests to be returned next week then tournament organisers EPCR would consider whether the game can go ahead.
It is the same process that led to the cancellation of Leicester's Challenge Cup quarter-final against Castres last month after three players and one member of staff from the French visitors tested positive. That decision was made 24 hours before kick-off.
Even if Racing report negative tests next week, the disruption is a major setback as the big-spending French heavyweights attempt to win their first Champions Cup title.
"EPCR has noted the announcement of several positive Covid-19 tests at Racing 92 and sends its best wishes to the club and to each person affected," a statement issued by tournament organisers read.
"EPCR will be following its full, robust protocols regarding the and will remain in contact with Racing 92, Exeter Chiefs and the French league throughout."
