Premier League statement on fans returning as new restrictions announced

The Premier League has said that it is “disappointed that the safe return of supporters to matches has been postponed,” following the latest restrictions imposed by the Government.

The planned return of spectators to sports venues in England from October 1 could be on hold for six months amid fears over a second wave of coronavirus infections.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced a range of restrictions in the House of Commons on Tuesday lunchtime, including those related to mass gatherings.

Announcing new restrictions in the House of Commons on Tuesday to combat the COVID-19 crisis, the Prime Minister said: “We have to acknowledge that the spread of the virus is now affecting our ability to reopen business conferences, exhibitions and large sporting events.

“So we will not be able to do this from October 1 and I recognise the implications for our sports clubs which are the life and soul of our communities, and my right honourable friends the Chancellor and the Culture Secretary are working urgently on what we can do now to support them.”

However, the Premier League insist that they still believe that it is still possible for supporters to make a “safe return” to stadia across the country.

“The Premier League notes the government’s announcement today and while the health of the nation must remain everyone’s priority, we are disappointed that the safe return of supporters to matches has been postponed,” declared the statement.

“The Premier League is certain that, through League-wide guidelines and a code of conduct developed with scientific experts and agreed by the government’s Sports Ground Safety Authority, fans in stadiums will be as safe or even safer than at any other public activity currently permitted. This is already evident in other European leagues.

“Football is not the same without attending fans and the football economy is unsustainable without them. Last season, Premier League clubs suffered £700m in losses and at present, our national game is losing more than £100m per month.

“This is starting to have a devastating impact on clubs and their communities.

“We are confident that Premier League clubs, using innovative ways to get supporters safely back into grounds, will enable revenues to return to all levels of the game, as well as maintain solidarity arrangements, current tax contributions and financial support for local and national economies.

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“While there is a current pause in a date for fans returning to sports venues, the Premier League and our clubs will not slow down in our preparations for providing safe, bio-secure environments.

“We will continue to work with government to bring supporters safely back into grounds as soon as possible.”

Should fans be allowed to return to football stadiums, provided there is proof it is safe to do so? Have your say here.  

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