SPFL look at Covid passports

THE SPFL is among the major sporting bodies to sign a joint letter to Boris Johnson and other political leaders collectively backing research on Covid passports to enable full stadiums. In a significant move, ten organisations have thrown their weight behind the controversial idea that has divided politicians and the public. The open letter was published last night after the English FA told UEFA that Wembley will be able to operate at a quarter capacity for each of its group games at Euro 2020 — allowing 22,500 fans to attend the match with Scotland on June 18. Around 3,600 tickets are expected to be reserved for Scotland fans. It is hoped that Wembley will be at least half full for the semi-finals, but the

dream of a 90,000-capacity crowd for the final will only be possible with some form of Covid passport. Prime Minister Johnson confirmed this week that a certification app to prove if people have been vaccinated or tested negative for coronavirus is being considered as a way to help crowds return to events in England from June 21. The UK Government’s proposals have been criticised by Conservative MPs and opposition parties, with Labour leader Keir Starmer and SNP Westminster leader Ian Blackford both saying they do not support the plans. First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has said she wouldn’t discount the use of vaccine passports in Scotland but cautioned over ethical and practical concerns. The SPFL have joined with the English FA, English Premier League and English Football League to sign a letter which describes the concept as a ‘credible option’ for major events that can help ‘end sport’s financial crisis’. Other than a handful of test events, Scottish football grounds have been empty throughout this season. National clinical director Professor Jason Leitch had raised hope of having fans at a Scottish Cup final ‘gateway event’ ahead of the Euros. However, that has been ruled out due to Hampden already being under UEFA control in preparation for hosting 12,000 supporters at Scotland’s match against the Czech Republic on June 14. The England and Wales Cricket Board, Rugby Football Union, Rugby Football League and Lawn Tennis Association — plus the respective organisers of Wimbledon and the British Grand Prix — have also signed the letter to politicians. It has been sent to Johnson, Starmer, Blackford, Liberal Democrats leader Ed Davey and Plaid Cymru’s Liz Saville Roberts. The letter says: ‘All of our sports can see the benefit that a Covid certification process offers in getting more fans safely back to their sport as quickly as possible. ‘We know that our stadia can only be fully filled with an assurance process. ‘This process must ensure that everyone can access stadia and must include arrangements that would verify a negative Covid test or an anti-body test alongside vaccination certification. ‘The final approach must not be discriminatory, should protect privacy, and have clear exit criteria. ‘Based on these principles, we support the review of the use of Covid certification for major events. ‘Any final decision on their application should follow an assessment of the evidence gathered in the forthcoming Events Research Programme trials. ‘We look forward to working with government and all interested parties, including our stakeholders and fans, to deliver the great sporting summer the whole nation craves.’ The letter continues: ‘It is important that we have certainty as soon as possible on the form this guidance will take so we can plan efficiently and effectively with many big sporting events scheduled for late June and onwards. ‘The return of fans will give a huge boost to millions who enjoy a day out at a sporting event with their friends and families and be of great benefit to the economy. ‘It is right that every possible action is considered to secure this outcome as soon as possible. ‘This includes investigating how a Covid certification arrangement could reduce and then safely remove the requirement for social distancing.’ Under the Scottish Government’s roadmap, large events are due to be able to host some fans from May 17. While the Scottish Cup final falls on May 22, Hampden comes under UEFA control from May 14. European football’s governing body will already have started preparatory work for the Euros that will prevent fans from being in the stand for the domestic showpiece. Moving the cup final to another venue is not thought to be under consideration as it stands.