Fans allowed back into outdoor sports events in a limited capacity from next week

Fans are to be allowed back into outdoor sports events in a limited capacity when the second national lockdown is lifted on Wednesday next week.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson confirmed this afternoon that ‘spectator sports could resume inside and outside with capacity limits and social distancing’ in the lowest risk areas.

A maximum of 4,000 fans (or 50 per cent of capacity, whichever is lower), are set to be allowed at outdoor sports events in tier 1 areas while 2,000 (or 50 per cent of capacity) will be allowed in tier 2 areas. The ban on supporters in stadiums will continue for areas in tier 3. The tiers are set to be decided on Thursday. 

He is set to make a statement on a whole raft of proposals to the House of Commons this week for MPs to vote on. The measures will form part of the Government’s new COVID-19 strategy for the country.

Elite sport has been taking place behind closed doors during England’s four-week lockdown. It’s not clear whether non-league clubs below step 2 can have spectators in tier 3 areas as was the case prior to the November lockdown.

The PM also announced that outdoor team sports can resume from December 3. Grassroots and amateur sport has been on hold since November 5. Gyms and leisure centres will also be able to reopen.