September 18 – The English Premier League has urged the British government to stick to its previous plan for a controlled return of fans into stadiums from October 1 but could end up losing the argument.
Covid cases are on the rise again across the country and the government said last week that the idea of pilot events with fans from October 1 are to be reviewed, probably meaning a later start date.
However eight lower-league clubs have been given permission to admit up to 1,000 spectators at games this weekend as part of the programme and the Premier League wants to be treated the same way.
Its clubs met virtually on Thursday to discuss the return of their supporters, noting the “significant impact” of the loss of matchday revenues during the coronavirus pandemic.
“Safety remains the number one priority and clubs reiterated their commitment to ensuring Premier League stadiums will be among the safest public places, through the effective use of a wide range of mitigation measures,” a statement said.
The English top flight has had no fans at stadiums since last season resumed in June and estimates that clubs face losses of up to £700 million if matches continue to be held behind closed doors.
“Clubs reaffirmed that the continued loss of matchday revenues is having a significant impact across the League as well as on the football pyramid and local and national economies,” the statement insisted adding that clubs, if allowed limited numbers of fans, “will adopt a range of common standards, which will help deliver bio-secure, safe environments for fans across the League.”
“Taking into account the high safety standards which will be set by the Premier League in conjunction with the relevant public authorities, the League and clubs urge government to remain committed to the October 1 date for the controlled return of fans to sporting venues.”
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