Crowds will return to AFL matches in Melbourne this weekend, after the Victorian Government announced an easing of coronavirus restrictions.
The AFL had lobbied the state government for a 50 per cent capacity at the MCG and Marvel Stadium, but crowds will be capped at 25,000 fans this weekend before a planned boost to 85 per cent capacity next week.
It means Friday night's Richmond-St Kilda match at the MCG to be the first fixture played in front of spectators in the city since May 23.
"From 11.59pm tomorrow night, outdoor stadiums can have 50 per cent of the venue capacity up to 25,000 people," acting Premier James Merlino.
"This means that the A-League grand final can proceed with 15,000 people and the MCG can host 25,000 people.
"From the following week, commencing 11.59pm on July 1 and subject to public health advice, indoor and outdoor stadiums will be able to increase to 85 per cent capacity - so that includes the MCG, Marvel Stadium and AAMI Park."
The roof at Marvel Stadium will remain open for the two matches this weekend and in line with community wide mask restrictions, all fans, aged 12 and above, will be required to wear a face mask when moving throughout both the MCG and Marvel Stadium, unless they have a medical exemption – this includes when entering and exiting the stadium, inside function rooms, going to the bathroom or when purchasing food and beverage or merchandise.
Fans are not required to wear a facemask when in their allocated seats.
The capacity was approved on the basis of the venues being outdoors, and the AFL, in conjunction with both the MCG and Marvel Stadium management, have ensured the matches, like all AFL matches, have a COVID-Safe Event Plan that is endorsed by the Victorian Department of Health.
The Bulldogs are set to host North Melbourne at Marvel Stadium next weekend, with a timeslot and day yet to be finalised.
The VFL and VFLW competitions will also welcome spectators back to matches in Melbourne this weekend, with maximum venue capacities of 1000 patrons outside.
For the Bulldogs-Casey VFLW match at VU Whitten Oval on Saturday, patrons are reminded to please scan the QR code on arrival, wear masks when indoors, and practice COVID-safe behaviours where appropriate.
