How is UEFA making EURO 2020 as safe as possible for supporters?
Wednesday, June 9, 2021
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UEFA has worked closely with governments, health authorities and local organising bodies to ensure the safety of fans attending matches at EURO 2020.
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Safety protocols relating to the pandemic differ between host nations, and while local health regulations provide the primary reference point for ensuring supporter safety at each stadium, including attendance limits, they are supplemented by UEFA's own minimum criteria. This means that match organisers at all UEFA matches are committed to adopting best practices based on medical advice to minimise the risk of infection.
"We have been working diligently with the host associations and local authorities to ensure a safe and festive environment at the games," said UEFA president Aleksander Čeferin. "I am really pleased that we are able to welcome spectators at all matches for a celebration of national team football across the continent."
How were the decisions around stadium capacities made?
The decisions were taken by the hosts. The key indicator was the projection of an improved health situation in their host countries. Many factors were taken into consideration, including the local vaccination rollout, their plans for reopening the economy and the expected slow-down of the virus due to warmer temperatures.
In many countries, UEFA EURO 2020 had already been part of their national recovery strategy. In addition, UEFA has worked closely with the World Health Organization (WHO) to adapt the WHO COVID-19 risk assessment tool for EURO 2020.
What health and safety measures will be in place to minimise the risk of infection at the stadiums?
UEFA's main priority is to deliver a safe EURO for everyone. Reducing the risk of infection is our shared responsibility, so we've implemented some new rules.
Supporters attending matches will need to wear a face mask at all times.
• Specified entry time slots for every ticket holder: fans will have a 30-minute window to arrive at the stadium to ensure adherence to social distancing guidelines.
• Hygiene: an average 800 hand sanitiser units will be placed at strategic points around each stadium. All EURO stadiums will be cleaned on a regular basis throughout match days.
• Queuing: clear floor markings will help fans maintain movement without compromising social distance regulations.
• Public awareness: safety measures will be promoted heavily throughout each stadium so everyone is aware of the rules.
• Cashless transactions: every venue will accept card payments, with many using contactless readers.
• What else? Other measures may include temperature checks or COVID-19 rapid tests, but every stadium will be a little bit different.
No smoking
As part of its commitment to organise EURO 2020 in a healthy environment for players, officials, organisers and spectators, a No Smoking policy will be in operation at all stadiums.
At most venues, a full smoking ban will be implemented. Designated smoking areas located outside of the stadium bowl will be in operation in Copenhagen and Munich.
How will UEFA make EURO 2020 accessible for disabled supporters?
All stadiums have been assessed in terms of accessibility by UEFA and its partner organisations in working visits before the event.
Accessible seats considering different needs have been identified and improved where they did not previously meet with the required standards.
Dedicated parking is available for disabled and low-mobility spectators. In some venues, depending on the stadium configuration, shuttle services or buggies are available for spectators with additional needs.
Specific directional signage, along with the support of a dedicated team of volunteers are in place to ensure that all supporters can easily reach their seats and equally enjoy the matches.