The English summer’s most prestigious sports events are under pressure to increase their crowd sizes as the Prime Minister expresses confidence in the end of social distancing measures. Industry experts are urging Wimbledon and other events to revise their conservative plans in light of Boris Johnson’s positive outlook. Twickenham and Wembley stadiums aim to have at least 50% capacity by July. With the government allowing 10,000 spectators to return from Monday, the R&A now anticipates a “significant” number of attendees at the Open Championship, possibly up to 120,000. However, some events like the All England Club are currently limiting capacity to 25% despite starting after most restrictions are due to be lifted.
In response, Professor Robert Dingwall, a public health expert at Nottingham Trent University, suggests that Wimbledon should plan for crowds of up to 70%. He argues that current plans in racing and tennis are too conservative and inflexible, given the low risk of transmission outdoors. The All England Club maintains flexibility in its arrangements, and it’s expected that Centre Court and No1 will see increased capacity by the end of the tournament.
Royal Ascot seeks exemption for 10,000 fans
Royal Ascot is in discussions with Whitehall and racing regulators to increase the limit of 4,000 spectators at next month’s event, which typically attracts around 60,000 people per day. There are hopes of scaling up to 10,000 attendees, and there is even a proposal to add the festival to the national events research programme, potentially allowing for an even higher limit. While Ascot is not currently part of the government’s pilot programme, talks are ongoing to explore the possibility of increasing crowd sizes at the 179-acre site.
The Premier League is also lobbying for guarantees on full venues by the start of next season. Richard Masters, the league’s chief executive, emphasized the importance of having vibrant stadiums, including away supporters, from day one. However, some supporters have criticized the Big Six club owners, accusing them of not learning from the European Super League debacle. There are stark differences in ticket policies, with Burnley offering over 3,000 free tickets while Tottenham Hotspur sets a price band of £60 for their lone home fixture against Aston Villa.
Rugby Union is also working hard to increase crowd numbers, aiming for a half-full Twickenham for England’s matches against USA and Canada in July. The government’s roadmap out of lockdown allows for sports stadiums to open subject to capacity limits, with higher numbers expected from June 21 onwards.
While scientists and politicians are optimistic about the return of spectators, a survey suggests that only one in four people plan to attend sports events or music gigs as soon as restrictions are lifted. The survey highlights that around half of respondents would consider attending if measures such as PCR testing, reduced capacity, and social distancing were in place.
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