Hugs and high-fives off limits as sport prepares for return of fans

FOOTBALL, rugby and cricket fans will be warned not to celebrate too wildly for fear of spreading coronavirus when spectators return to live matches.

Draft guidance issued by the Sports Grounds Safety Authority suggests authorities draw up a Spectator Code of Conduct to keep fans safe when they return in October.

As part of the code, fans will be warned: “Take care when shouting, singing or celebrating. Avoid hugs, high-fives and any close contact with people who are not within your social bubble.” Other rules will include turning backwards when sidling past fans to avoid face-to-face contact and to observe social distancing at all times.

“Remain in your seat or place at all times wherever possible,” the guidance says. “If you need to access any of the ground’s amenities, such as toilets, check to see if any of them are not in use, and plan accordingly.”

The 84-page report details how the reduction of social distancing from two metres to one still leaves sports grounds facing challenges in holding safe events. Obese, diabetic and over70s fans may be discouraged from attending due to their increased risk.

County cricket friendlies will be the first events in the Government’s pilot scheme, with Surrey’s two-day match against Middlesex, starting today at the Kia Oval, one of the games that will permit fans. The snooker World Championship, beginning on July 31, will have provision for between 250 and 350 “golden ticket” holders and the final day of Glorious Goodwood on Aug 1 will be open to the racecourse’s 5,000 members plus guests.

Movement Strategies, a crowd dynamics consultancy, will monitor how fans move around the grounds.

If all goes well, spectators will return from Oct 1.