CHICAGO – Chicago lifted some coronavirus restrictions ahead of time for MLB Opening Day, allowing fans to participate in games at Wrigley Field and Rate Field for the first time in more than a year.
The rules, announced Monday by Mayor Lori Lightfoot’s administration, go into effect on April 1, Chicken Opening Day. The opening of the house for the White Sox is April 8.
“As a fan of hard sports,” said Lightfoot, “I am personally delighted that Chicago will take the first prudent steps toward the safe reopening of our beloved baseball stadiums to fans this season.”
Capacity will initially be limited to 20% for each seat with at least 6 feet between the parties. At Wrigley Field, the oldest stadium in the National League, attendance will be limited to 8,274 fans per match. The puppies did not report any positive COVID-19 tests among their players in the 2020 season.
“Nothing can replace the energy and enthusiasm of our beloved fans that every game brings to Friendly Confines,” said Cubs chief executive Tom Ricketts. “We are ready and excited for our long-awaited meeting at Wrigley Field.”
At the guaranteed fare field, capacity will be limited to 8,122 fans.
“We think this is a time when baseball can really serve our fans and communities again, as we all hope for a gradual return to normal,” said Jerry Reinsdorf, president of the White Sox.
Lightfoot has accredited both teams to work closely with city public health officials to develop a safe fan hosting plan, which will also provide a way to safely increase the stadium’s capacity as we approach COVID-19 recovery. The city has determined that it is appropriate to reopen to a limited number of fans, citing “low to moderate risk levels” for test positivity, ICU cases and beds occupied by COVID-19 patients.
The Cubs and White Sox will include new measures designed to comply with local mandates and reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission, including restricting stadium entry, cashless concessions and the sale of goods, as well as reduced lines once introduced. Everyone will have to wear a mask.
With the announcement in Chicago and California’s decision Friday to allow baseball stadiums, among other outdoor venues, to admit fans, at least 25 of MLB’s 30 teams have announced plans that will allow fans in the stands to time for the opening of the day. According to The Wall Street Journal, about 40% of annual revenue for baseball teams comes from the stadium experience, including ticket sales and concessions.
“On behalf of Major League Baseball, I thank Mayor Lightfoot for their joint commitment to the responsible resumption of fan presence in Chicago, in accordance with protocols designed to promote safety,” said Commissioner Rob Manfred. “MLB will continue to urge fans to follow best health and safety practices in the fight against COVID-19.”