DFL says the return of spectators looks “realistic” for the upcoming season

In a season with empty stadiums, it is great to see even a small amount of fans back in the stadiums like Bayern Munich had in its season finale. Fortunately, the DFL states that the return of spectators is realistic for the upcoming season, due to the vaccine rollout.

The DFL is in support of vaccinating willing players and staff but has made it clear that there will be no mandatory vaccination (per kicker):

“There cannot and will not be a central, league-wide vaccination campaign — if only because of the different regulations in the federal states... In addition, it is ultimately the decision of each individual whether or not to can be vaccinated or not,” explains Ansgar Schwenken, DFL Director of Football Affairs

In the 2019/2020 season, there were 217 COVID-19 cases in the Bundesliga and the German 2nd division. This caused major disruptions to the season but with strict measures in place, the competitions were able to continue without spectators. “I think it is realistic to let spectators in. Sure, the stadiums won’t be 100 percent full again right away, but it will hopefully no longer be necessary for games to take place in the stadiums without fans if we assume that the Continue infectious tendencies,” said Professor Dr. Meyer, who is head of the task force.

“It’s sure to be emotional for all of us. We’ve been waiting for over a year. The successes we had last year in particular unfortunately took place without spectators. It’s a shame for us all. That’s why we want to win big titles again in front of spectators in the future, so that we can then celebrate them with our fans.”, Manuel Neuer said in a recent interview for FCBayern.com.

Fans and players alike are eager to share these moments together and there is light at the end of the tunnel for this global pandemic. We are heading in the right direction to once again see the Allianz Arena full of life. That is a day which I cannot wait for.