The Covid-19 Pandemic has had astronomic effects on society. The effect of the pandemic peaked with financial and social losses. People interaction was limited to virtual and in reduced numbers.
Sports was affected, with numbers of spectators reduced dramatically, thereby affecting the income generated. The gradual containment of the Covid-19 pandemic has allowed the numbers allowed into match venues to increase.
Reliable reports have confirmed that the Premier Soccer League, SAFA and the government have entered discussions to increase the number of spectators into match venues.
South Africa have an upcoming tie and hope to increase the number of spectators to the game. Billed for November 11 is the World Cup qualifier against Zimbabwe, and SAFA is eyeing an increase in numbers by adding more bums on seats, but the plan is subject to approval by health officials.
SAFA chief medical officer Dr Thulani Ngwenya spoke on the issues discussed. He confirmed that the association had plans to appeal to the government to review its stance on the 2000 fans it currently mandates as a maximum at sporting events.
Dr Ngwenya mentioned that the way forward is for Joe Phaahla, the Health Minister, to allow spectators to return to match venues. Dr Ngwenya said fans return to stadiums should be incremental and in percentages but declined to speak on the details.
“There is a comprehensive plan submitted to the National Coronavirus Command Council. Hopefully, it will be adopted and then submitted to cabinet before it is promulgated by the Minister of Cogta – that document talks about percentages.”
“The lessons we learnt are included. For now, the Moses Mabhida Stadium will only have 2000 fans because the league is very strict when it comes to regulations. We will then take it from there. As much as we want bigger crowds, we can’t do anything unless there is the promulgation of adjusted regulations. We are hoping that by the time we host Zimbabwe, things would have changed. But that depends on the government,” he explained.