Unvaccinated fans warned to steer clear of Bafana Bafana qualifier
South African Football Association (SAFA) chief medical officer Thulani Ngwenya has warned unvaccinated soccer fans not to try their luck when the FNB stadium reopens its gates to spectators on Tuesday.
The warning follows news that a total of 2000 fans will be allowed to attend Bafana Bafana’s World Cup qualifier against Ethiopia at Soccer City.
It’s the first time fans will watch a live game at the 94,000 capacity arena since the Covid-19 pandemic hit in March 2020.
Ngwenya says strict protocols will be followed, including an online application on the Ticketmaster website.
“Please do not come to the stadium when you are not fully vaccinated, when you haven’t applied because you will not pass through the first gate because there you will need that certificate and you will need to be verified,” he adds.
Earlier this year, government announced the initiative to get fans back at the stadium as part of a move to drive up mass vaccinations.
Following high-end deliberations, the Department of Cooperative Governance And Traditional Affairs gazetted the new regulations on Monday.
The regulations will see 750 spectators at closed sporting venues, while 2000 spectators will be allowed in open sporting facilities.
Cogta spokesperson Lungi Mtshali says the relaxation of the regulations comes amid decreased Covid-19 infections.
“Government has eased lockdown restrictions following trends in the progression of the Covid-19 pandemic. The decrease in the number of infections, as well as consultations with relevant stakeholders, has prepared the path for recognized sporting bodies to host sporting events, including both professional and non-professional competitions, subject to strict adherence to the guidelines.
“The Department of Sports, working with sports bodies will guide us in terms of how sports spectators are allowed during this first phase,” Mtshali adds.
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Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa is expected to brief media on Tuesday morning ahead of the second leg of the Bafana Bafana and Ethiopia game.
Bafana Bafana scored an impressive three goals in the first leg on Saturday at the Bahir Dar Stadium, beating Ethiopia.
South Africa continues to dominate Group G with 7 points, while Ghana trails close behind with 6 points.
Ethiopia has 3 points while Zimbabwe sits at the bottom of the group with 1 point.
