TOKYO (AP) – Approval from the Japanese baseball and football government to allow more enthusiasts to enter their stadiums now that the COVID-19 infection rate is declining, league officials said Tuesday.
Nippon Professional Baseball and the J-League of Football are asking the government to allow a maximum of 20,000 enthusiasts or up to 50% of the capacity, depending on the smaller number.
The government may simply accept the proposal on Friday and reports in Japan mean that it will most likely be approved.
“At this stage, we still don’t have any selection with the coronavirus,” NPB Commissioner Atsushi Saito said at an online press conference.
Saito said it was “important for us to find a balance” between economic activities and infection measures.
According to government guidelines, leagues allow up to 5,000 enthusiasts or 50% of capacity, depending on the smaller number. They hoped to increase attendance in August, but were blocked after an increase in COVID-19 cases.
“We believe this is more of a slow procedure than a sudden and primary expansion,” J-League President Mitsuru Murai said. “By doing so, we will be able to welcome more enthusiasts to the stadiums and provide them with a safe and secure environment. atmosphere. “
Japan reported 293 cases on Monday, following a recent downward trend, and reported about 1,350 coronavirus deaths.
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