Barry Hearn diagnosed with coronavirus two days after son Eddie confirms positive test result

Father-and-son owners of Matchroom have both contracted coronavirus and are now self-isolating, though the 72-year-old Barry is asymptomatic

Barry Hearn has tested positive for coronavirus (Getty Images)

Barry Hearn, the sports promoter who is chairman of Matchroom, the World Snooker Tour and the Professional Darts Corporation, has tested positive for coronavirus.

Matchroom and the PDC both tweeted that the 72-year-old, who had surgery after suffering a minor heart attack earlier this year, is asymptomatic and is now self-isolating.

The statement said: "Matchroom chairman Barry Hearn has tested positive for Covid-19 and begun a period of self-isolation in accordance with UK government guidelines.

"Barry feels well and is not displaying any symptoms.

"Additional staff and family members have also been tested and all found negative."

On Thursday, Hearn's son Eddie announced he had tested positive for coronavirus and he therefore left the Matchroom Boxing bio-secure bubble ahead of Joshua Buatsi's bout with Marko Kalic on Sunday.

“Gutted to just find out I tested positive for Covid-19 today and have to leave the bubble immediately,” Hearn tweeted, referencing the environment set up around this weekend’s Matchroom card.

“Thankfully all other tests were negative. Heading home to rest – catch up tomorrow.”

Just two weeks prior, Eddie Hearn appeared to undermine the government’s advice around preventing the spread of the disease.

“Wear a mask, wash your hands, keep your distance..how about get more exercise, eat healthily, boost your immune system,” he tweeted.

“Just my morning thought. Have a good day!”

PA