Alabama football coach Nick Saban tests positive for COVID-19, school reports

ATLANTA — University of Alabama head football coach Nick Saban has tested positive for COVID-19, just days before a game against the University of Georgia.

The school says Saban and Athletics Director Greg Byrne both tested positive and immediately left the team facilities to self isolate.

No other athletes or coaches have tested positive and anyone who is considered a high risk contact has been notified the school said in a statement.

“I found out earlier this afternoon that I had tested positive for COVID-19. I immediately left work and isolated at home. At this time, I do not have any symptoms relative to COVID, and I have taken another PCR test to confirm my diagnosis. I informed our team of my positive test at 2 p.m. today on a Zoom call and let them know offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian will oversee preparations at the complex while I work from home,” Saban said in a statement.

The teams are scheduled to play in Tuscaloosa at 8 p.m. on Saturday.

Channel 2 sports director Zach Klein has reached out to the University of Georgia for their response and to find out if they are changing any protocols heading into this weekend’s game.

Stay with Channel 2 Action News for updates on this developing story.

UGA Bulldogs home opener brings concerns of COVID-19 spike The university is limiting attendance in the stadium to 20,000 fans. Sanford Stadium can hold over 90,000 fans.

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