FOOTBALL FANS in particular and sports fans in general will be allowed back to watch live action once the national lockdown ends on December 2.

The government will allow the lower number of 4,000 spectators – or 50 per cent of a stadium’s capacity – for outdoor events in Tier 1 areas. For indoor events in Tier 1 the maximum allowed will be the lower of 2,000 or 50 per cent of capacity.  

In Tier 2 areas, each of these numbers will be halved. So for outdoor events in Tier 2, a maximum of 2,000 spectators – or 50 per cent of capacity, whichever is lower – will be allowed. For indoor events the lower number of either  1,000 fans – or 50 per cent of normal capacity – will be allowed. 

Adhere

Areas that will go straight into Tier 3 however will still have to adhere to a ban of attending sporting events for all fans. 

The Premier League said in a statement: “Fans have been greatly missed at Premier League matches and therefore we welcome the Prime Minister’s announcement today regarding the return of supporters for the first time since March, albeit at small numbers.

Ambition

“Our ambition remains to work with Government to increase attendance to more substantial levels. Until this can be done, many fans will be unable to attend games and our clubs will continue to operate matches at a financial loss.

“Our priority continues to be the agreement of a roadmap, with DCMS and the Sports Technology and Innovation Group, for pilot events that can help our clubs quickly scale up to larger capacities in line with the Sports Ground Safety Authority’s COVID-secure guidelines and beyond.

“Premier League clubs have a proven track record of achieving high-biosecurity standards and we believe we can play a significant role in the Government’s rapid turnaround testing initiative.

“We look forward to working with Government on their next steps.”