BEVERLY HILLS, May 05, (THEWILL) – As the easing of COVID-19 restrictions continue to gradually involve the relaxation of health and safety protocols around sports, the English Premier League have announced that only fans of the home sides would be permitted to attend the final two rounds of fixtures for the 2020/21 campaign.
The EPL stadiums are hoping to welcome fans back in a limited capacity from May 17, pending final government approval of the trialling return of socially-distanced, in-person spectators to football grounds across England.
The League stopped short of expectations though, as it restricted the away fans from match attendance, even as it appeared a limited number of the away fans were going to be allowed. The EPL slammed shut that idea in the statement it issued about the final games:
“The Premier League has today confirmed that the final two Matchweeks of the 2020/21 season will be limited to home fans, subject to the Government easing lockdown restrictions in the United Kingdom.
“Supporters are expected to be able to return to stadiums from 17 May in a reduced capacity, pending the final Government decision on planned Step 3 conditions, which will be announced no later than 10 May.
“The Premier League last week confirmed fixtures have been rescheduled to provide an opportunity for each club to host one home match with supporters before the end of the season. Matchweek 37 will now be played on 18-19 May, with the final matches of the season kicking off at 16:00 BST on Sunday 23 May as planned.
“Following consultation with clubs, it was agreed matches would not be open to away supporters due to varying operational challenges across the League and the need to deliver a consistent approach, while maximising the opportunity for home-fan attendance.
“The safety and security of supporters is of paramount importance. Clubs have a proven track record of providing COVID-safe environments and have operational plans in place ready to safely welcome supporters back to their stadiums.
“Fans have been greatly missed at Premier League matches and this marks a key step towards full stadiums, including away fans, from the start of the 2021/22 season.”
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
