Serie A fans will have to wait a while longer before stadiums are open at 100 per cent capacity, as the Minister for Health warns they have ‘no plans’ to open up more amid rising COVID-19 rates.
Open-air arenas are only allowed to open at 75 per cent capacity at the moment, and those who do enter the stadium must have an EU Green Pass.
That shows vaccination status, recent recovery from COVID or a negative test posted within 48 hours of the event.
It had been hoped they would open up to 100 per cent capacity by December, but growing cases all over Europe are prompting the Italian authorities to hit the brakes.
“We have no plans to open up stadiums to 100 per cent capacity,” Minister for Health Roberto Speranza told Che Tempo Che Fa on RAI 3.
“My strong recommendation, especially during this period where the virus is growing again, is to use a mask as much as possible, because it really is an essential tool to reduce the possibility of contagion.
“The situation for the next few weeks will be insidious.”
The FIGC had tried to get special dispensation to open up the Stadio Olimpico in Rome at 100 per cent capacity for the World Cup qualifier against Switzerland on Friday, but that request was refused.
In fact, the PalaAlpitour venue in Turin that is hosting the ATP tennis Finals this week had originally been given a 75 per cent capacity, only to be reduced to 60 per cent amid growing cases.
What difference does it make.
Most grounds pre covid could only dream of 75% attendance.