Philadelphia officials said that fans "would not be allowed to attend professional sports games -- meaning the Eagles will not have spectators at any home games in 2020," according to McDaniel, Walsh & Smith of the PHILADELPHIA INQUIRER. Health Commissioner Thomas Farley said that the coronavirus safety protocols for the major sports leagues "'look pretty good,' but it would not be safe to have people in the stands." The city yesterday announced a "moratorium on all large public events that require public permits through February." Events at private venues, including sports stadiums, "aren't affected by that ban." Outgoing Philadelphia Managing Dir Brian Abernathy said the city has been in communication with the Eagles, and has "told them our expectations are that they don't have fans." Meanwhile, the Phillies already have said that they "would play without fans in attendance" this season (PHILADELPHIA INQUIRER, 7/15).
LIMITED CAPACITY: In Boston, Nicole Yang notes a memo issued by the Patriots yesterday said that Gillette Stadium is "expected to host only 20 percent of its total capacity." The venue can hold up to 65,878 attendees, which means "no more than 13,175 fans will be permitted on game days." The Patriots noted state and local approval is "required for fans to attend." The reopening plan outlined by the state notes large-scale sporting events "wouldn't be held until Massachusetts moves into the final phase -- Phase 4, or 'the new normal,' which will require either vaccine against coronavirus or treatment for it to be readily available to the public" (BOSTON GLOBE, 7/15).
DEALER'S CHOICE: In L.A., Jeff Miller reports Chargers season-ticket holders "can roll over their accounts to 2021, with the COVID-19 pandemic making it unlikely fans will be allowed to attend games this season at SoFi Stadium." If fans are permitted, season-ticket holders who opt for the rollover "would be given priority in purchasing single-game tickets." Fans who purchased tickets for 2020 also "can receive a refund" (L.A. TIMES, 7/15).
