60,000 fans for Wembley final
FOOTBALL is coming home in even bigger style after it was announced that more than 60,000 fans will be allowed at the Euro 2020 final atWembley.
There had been concerns next month’s showpiece would be moved to Budapest because of England’s quarantine rules.
But the Government, FA and Uefa have signalled the final will go ahead at the iconic stadium on July 11 – and with more supporters than expected.
Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said: “We are thrilled more fans will now be able to walk through the Wembley turnstiles and enjoy the finals of Euro 2020.
“We have worked closely with Uefa and the FA to ensure rigorous public health measures are in place.” Both
semi-finals will also see 60,000 fans pack into Wembley – 75 per cent of capacity – for the games on July 6 and 7.
The three matches, which are upping the capacity from 40,000, are set to have the highest attendances in the UK since the first lockdown in March 2020.
But the World Health Organization is alarmed at the move. Official Robb Butler said: “In a few of the host cities, Covid-19 cases are on the rise. WHO is concerned about easing of restrictions.” Uefa has yet to announce details of additional ticket sales. Fans must show a negative Covid test or prove two jabs within 14 days of the fixture.
It was feared the final could be moved when Uefa announced 2,500 VIPs would attend even though England quarantine rules did not allow it. But it appears the VIPs will be exempt as part of the capacity deal. The Puskas Arena in Budapest has already hosted games at a full 60,000 capacity.