Harlequins' Champions Cup game against Racing 92 to be without fans

Harlequins' second round Heineken Champions Cup will be without spectators after London enters tier 3 restrictions to curb surge in new coronavirus cases.

The restrictions will come in place from midnight on Wednesday after the health officials confirmed a new variant of the novel coronavirus in the UK which could see an increase in infections though they are yet to ascertain on whether it could cause any serious disease.

Earlier, 2000 fans were allowed in Tier 2 following the second lockdown that ended in the first week of December but now with the country's highest restriction, Twickenham Stoop that is set to host the game between Harlequins and Racing 92 will be played under closed doors.

The restrictions will also apply for London Irish's European Challenge Cup game against Paul to be played on Sunday at Community Stadium.

“A new variant of coronavirus has been identified in the UK, which may be associated with the fastest spread in the southeast of England,” said Health Secretary Matt Hancock.

“We do not know the extent to which this is because of the new variant but no matter its cause, we have to take swift and decisive action which unfortunately is absolutely essential to control this deadly disease while the vaccine is rolled out.

"We must act now to shift the curve… because when the virus moves quickly, we must move quickly too".