CHICAGO — There will be no fans allowed at Soldier Field to start the 2020 NFL season due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
The Chicago Bears said in a statement on Monday evening that the team, ASM Global, the Chicago Park District, and public health officials worked together to determine whether fans could attend games while following city, state, CDC and NFL guidelines.
“The Bears and the City of Chicago agreed the health metrics show that it is not the right time to welcome fans back to Soldier Field,” the statement said. “The health and safety of the city’s residents and fans of the Bears will always take priority.”
The Bears added that a plan will be developed to bring fans back when the team and city feel that it is safe to do so.
Earlier Monday, the Kansas City Chiefs said in a statement that fans would be allowed at their home games in a limited capacity.
“The Kansas City Chiefs have finalized plans for a reduced capacity of approximately 22 percent to kick off the 2020 season,” said the Chiefs in a statement. “Included in the approved plans are important health and safety protocols that the club, in consultation with The University of Kansas Health System, has developed for fans who will attend games at Arrowhead Stadium.”
Fans attending Chiefs games will have to follow protocols put in place by the team including as wearing a mask at all times except when eating or drinking.
The Chiefs added that capacity limits may be changed during the season depending on guidance from local officials and public health experts.
