Administrators behind major sporting events in New Zealand say navigating the Government's Managed Isolation Quarantine protocols have been challenging.
And Athletes Federation boss Rob Nichol warns, unless current policies are changed, New Zealand could face boycotts altogether
"We're going to miss out and we're going to get left behind," Nichol tells Newshub. "They're saying, 'Hey look, New Zealand, we'd really like to help, but frankly, we can't trust your Government... we can't rely on you with certainty' and in an uncertain time, we want certainty.'"
MIQ and self-isolation requirements have already seen ASB Classic tennis and Sail GP cancelled, and there are growing fears next year's women's cricket and rugby World Cup's may follow suit.
"One-hundred percent [they are at risk]," says Nichol. "I don't think it'll come to that, but the fact it's even on the radar is concerning."
Oraginsers behind the 2023 Women's Football World Cup - co-hosted by New Zealand and Australia - are also concerned.
"If I could've picked a year in terms of event, I certainly would've picked 2023 ahead of 2022," says NZ Football boss Andrew Pragnell.
"I've got a lot of empathy for those running events and proceeding with events in '22."
Newshub understands concerns have been raised by global governing bodies over how the three World Cups could be affected, if the Government enforce another lockdown.
But reassurances have been given and the office for Minister for Sport Grant Robertson said: "There's no change to the existing process, although he's aware of the implications."
But Nichol believes local administrators are scared to speak out.
"Athletes, teams... there's a number of sporting organisations who aren't going to survive."
Nichol says there's an obvious solution to help those at all levels, including teams staying in bubbles.
"Regular testing, vaccination obviously, and staying in touch and taking some self-responsibility."
With plenty of big sporting events scheduled, Nichol hopes the Government starts listening, so more events aren't cancelled.
