The IHF acknowledged that the procedures were controversial saying: "We are aware of the fact that not all stakeholders might be in favour of the proposed measures.

"However, the IHF received information from several countries where friendly tournaments were organised during which several cases have been reported.

"Furthermore, the spread of the new and highly contagious XBB.1.5 variant of the virus shows that the pandemic still needs to be taken seriously."

The IHF said it was the first International Federation to create and apply a Medical Precaution Plan in 2021, which it claimed "also served as a model for the Olympic movement and numerous other sports federations."

The governing body added: "By requiring all stakeholders of the World Championship to do a PCR test before arrival, we make sure that no participant is infected when arriving in the host countries.

"This has become even more important after the restrictions have been lifted in most countries around the world, leading to an increased risk of getting infected.

"Furthermore, we have established a testing plan to be applied during the World Championship to make sure all players are healthy and able to play the matches.

"Handball is a dynamic and fast game with a lot of body contact and therefore requires all players to be in excellent health.

"Since asymptomatic carriers of the virus can also infect other players and stakeholders, the planned tests are the most effective measure to prevent the spread of the virus and keep all stakeholders safe and healthy.

"We cannot dictate to the hotels that there has to be a separation between the teams and the other hotel guests, because the hotels follow the guidelines of the respective countries.

"However, the IHF wants to do everything in our power to prevent the spread.

"This includes measures such as testing, allowing us to identify and isolate infected players as quickly as possible to avoid that the entire team drops out. 

"In this context it needs to be pointed out that isolated players will be accommodated in a separate room but will not be confined in this room for five days.

"As far as the spectators are concerned, there is enough distance and players are asked not to seek contact with the audience."

The 2023 IHF World Men's Handball Championship will be jointly hosted by Sweden and Poland from January 11 to 29.

Denmark are the current holders of the title, and have won the previous two editions of the Championship - in Egypt in 2021 and at the 2019 tournament, which was co-hosted by Denmark and Germany.