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The FAI will discuss the return of fans to international matches following today’s news that UEFA will open stadiums with 30% capacity.
The decision means that fans will be able to attend the games starting next week, where local laws allow.
The pilot program for the UEFA Super Cup in Budapest on 4 September has been hailed as a success, paving the way for fans to return during the next international window.
The FAI says the decision could allow “significant numbers” of fans to enter matches involving the various national teams at the senior and junior level, as well as the Europa League playoffs at home to Dundalk.
The association has noted that Dublin’s current level 3 restrictions would mean that no fans would be able to attend the Nations League clash with Wales at Aviva Stadium on Sunday week, but a statement said this situation would be monitored “with the government and health authorities. “
FAI Acting Executive Director Gary Owens said: “The FAI welcomes today’s announcement and looks forward to welcoming Irish fans to UEFA matches in the very near future.
“This is a great step forward for football and a timely boost for the Association. We are currently working with our colleagues from the IRFU and GAA on a joint proposal to the Government to facilitate the return of fans to all of our games.”
“This news tonight is another step in the right direction and we look forward to explaining it to the government and examining what it means for Irish football.
“Any decision to allow fans to return to UEFA matches with Irish club and international teams will, of course, be made in conjunction with all government agencies and with the safety of those fans our primary concern.”
NPHET suggested today that changes in Dublin appear unlikely in the next few days.
Meanwhile, UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin said: “Today’s decision is a sensible first step that puts the health of the fans first and respects the laws of each country.
“While we all face a common enemy in Covid, different countries have different approaches and different challenges at any given time.
This decision allows much more local flexibility to deal with the admission of fans than before, always respecting the assessment of the local authorities.
“Some 27 countries on the continent already allow fans to some degree. This decision will allow for a consistent country-by-country approach and not competition by competition, which was sometimes difficult for fans to understand.
In these difficult times, it is important to return more hope and passion to the lives of football fans and we urge them to behave appropriately and to respect the sanitary measures established for their own health and that of their teammates or team supporters. “.
UEFA stated that social distancing will be mandatory for spectators, while masks must also be worn in accordance with local regulations.
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