CHICAGO – Chicago lifts some coronavirus restrictions ahead of MLB’s opening day, allowing fans to attend Wrigley Field and Guaranteed Rate Fields for the first time in more than a year.
The rules, announced Monday by Mayor Lori Lightfoot’s administration, take effect on April 1, the opening day for the cubs. The home opener for the White Sox is April 8th.
“As a stubborn sports fan myself,” Lightfoot said, “I’m personally excited that Chicago is taking its first, cautious steps to safely reopen our beloved baseball stadiums for fans this season.”
Capacity will initially be limited to 20% for each venue with at least 6 feet between parties. At Wrigley Field, the oldest ballpark in the National League, attendance will be limited to 8,274 fans per game. The Cubs did not report any positive COVID-19 Tests among their players in the 2020 season.
“Nothing can replace the energy and enthusiasm that our beloved fans bring to every game,” said Cubs executive Tom Ricketts. “We are ready and excited for our long-awaited Wrigley Field reunion.”
On the warranty tariff field, the capacity will be limited to 8122 fans.
“We believe this is a moment that baseball can indeed serve our supporters and communities again, as we all hope for a gradual return to normalcy,” White Sox chairman Jerry Reinsdorf said.
Lightfoot has credited both teams for working closely with the city’s public health officials to develop a plan to house fans safely, which will also provide a way forward towards a safe increase in stadium capacity as we get closer. our COVID-19 recovery is coming. The city decided it was appropriate to reopen to a limited number of fans, citing ‘low to moderate risk levels’ for test positivity, cases and ICU beds occupied by COVID-19 patients.
The Cubs and White Sox include new measures designed to meet local mandates and reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission, including access to the beams, cashless concessions and trade sales, and reduced lines as soon as they are restricted. Everyone will be expected to wear a mask.
With Chicago’s announcement and California’s decision to allow baseball stadiums, including outdoor venues, to allow fans, at least 25 of the MLB’s 30 teams announced plans to allow fans in time for the opening day. According to The Wall Street Journal, about 40% of the annual revenue for baseball teams comes from the experience in the stadium, including ticket sales and concessions.
“On behalf of Major League Baseball, I thank Mayor Lightfoot for her shared commitment to a responsible resumption of fan attendance in Chicago, under protocols designed to promote safety,” said Commissioner Rob Manfred. “MLB will encourage fans to follow best practices for health and safety in the fight against COVID-19.”