An announcement by the Prime Minister, which included an update on the return of fans to sporting events, has been welcomed by Brentford FC and the Premier League. In a statement yesterday, Monday 5 July, the Prime Minister confirmed that, subject to a final review of the data next week, legal restrictions due to Covid-19 will end on Monday 19 July. Restrictions have been in place since March 2020 due to an outbreak of the virus.

The Prime Minister said limits on social contact will end, meaning there will be no restrictions on indoor or outdoor gatherings. Weddings, funerals and other life events able to take place without limits or restrictions. This includes any limits on attendance at sporting events.

All venues currently closed will be allowed to reopen and there will be no legal requirement for table service in hospitality settings. Face coverings will no longer be legally required in shops, schools, hospitality, or on public transport although guidance will be in place to suggest where people might choose to wear one, such as where you come into contact with people you don’t usually meet in enclosed and crowded places. The full press release can be found on the Government website here.

The Premier League has made the following statement: "Fans have been hugely missed so we welcome theannouncement by the Government and are looking forward to full stadiums in the 2021/22 season. As we move towards a Government decision on Step 4 of the roadmap and beyond, we will continue to work with football stakeholders and relevant public authorities to ensure that the return to full capacity is done in a way that keeps everyone safe."

Jon Varney, Brentford FC Chief Executive, said: “We join the Premier League in welcoming the announcement that limits on attendances at sport events will be removed later this month. We had been hoping and planning for this but it is fantastic to have confirmation of Government plans. Safety will remain our main concern but it feels like the end is now in sight.

“We have missed having stadiums full of Brentford fans and we know it has been difficult for you to not attend games. We saw how much fans make a difference at our Play-Off games in May and we long for that sort of noise and passion every week. We will update supporters on access to our matches as soon as we can.”