Hampden allowed to have 12,000 fans at Euro games

The Scottish FA has submitted plans to UEFA detailing how they could accommodate 12,000 fans at four European Championship games this summer.

Glasgow is one of 12 host cities for the tournament but with the pandemic affecting countries across the continent, UEFA has asked for an outline of possible capacity for matches in June, before making a final decision on whether to change the venues for some games.

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin has insisted that no games will be played behind closed doors at the tournament, which was postponed last summer with most of Europe in lockdown.

Though Scotland is still under restrictions to prevent the spread of Covid, the Scottish FA has worked with the Scottish Government to put together a proposal that will allow as many fans as possible into the national stadium.

That means Hampden would be at 25% capacity for the group games and knockout matches.

A statement from the Scottish FA and Glasgow Life read: “The Scottish FA and Glasgow Life (on behalf of Glasgow City Council) have been working on a range of planning scenarios for hosting the four UEFA Euro 2020 matches in Glasgow in response to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, both in terms of allowing spectators in the stadium and the creation of a Fan Zone in the city for the duration of the tournament.

“Following extensive consultation with the Scottish Government and public health advisers, the Local Organising Structure can confirm that it has submitted details of its preferred option for admitting spectators to the stadium to meet today’s UEFA deadline.

“We are delighted that the Scottish Government has given approval to allow spectators up to 25% of the stadium capacity (approximately 12,000 – based on the UEFA Euro 2020 venue overlay and seating configuration) for each of the four games to be staged at Hampden Park.

“Naturally, this will be subject to continued progress with reducing the prevalence of the virus and the roll-out of the vaccination programme.

“A decision on the Fan Zone in the city will be made at the end of April.

“UEFA will be in contact with all ticket holders on Friday advising them on the latest tournament arrangements including ticketing and travel information.”

First minister Nicola Sturgeon said: “I’m delighted we have been able to confirm that, thanks to Scotland’s progress in suppressing COVID-19, 12,000 spectators will be able to attend Hampden for the four EURO 2020 games this summer.

“This is a significant moment which celebrates just how far Scotland has come in tackling the COVID pandemic. Allowing fans to come together to watch Scotland play at our national stadium is a huge milestone, thanks to the dedication of fans sticking to the public health guidance.

“The restrictions set out over the last year have been really difficult for everyone – but I am looking forward to joining the Tartan Army in cheering on Scotland in June at Hampden Park.

“The country has delivered for the fans – now it’s all eyes on the team to deliver the results!”

Scotland will play two group games in Glasgow after qualifying for their first major tournament in 23 years. Steve Clarke’s team will play Czech Republic on June 14 and host Croatia eight days later.