(Columbus) - Governor Mike DeWine says that the Browns, and the Cincinnati Bengals, have been granted limited variances to the state's COVID-19 order on fans at sports events.
Only 6,000 fans will be allowed at each of only two games each at FirstEnergy Stadium and Paul Brown Stadium. The governor says only 6,000 fans will be allowed at the Browns-Bengals game September 17, and the Browns-Washington Football Team game September 17th. In addition, only 6,000 will be allowed at the Jacksonville-Cincinnati game on October 4th, and the October 25th Browns-Bengals games in Cincinnati.
The variances allow no more than 1500 spectators in each side of the stadium. Fans must use the designated entrance for their ticket. In addition, all fans must wear a mask in accordance with state regulations.
The governor's statement did not say anything about the remaining home games on the Browns and Bengals schedules. The Browns also have home games against Indianapolis, Las Vegas, Houston, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Pittsburgh.
"This year will certainly be different, but both the Browns and the Bengals have worked exceedingly hard and have made extensive preparations to welcome a limited number of fans to their stadiums safely," said Governor Mike DeWine. "These very thorough plans and safety precautions warrant a two-game trial to try and accommodate fans, at reduced capacities with social distancing and masks."
DeWine spoke with leadership of both the Cleveland Browns and Cincinnati Bengals organizations to inform them of the variances.
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(Photo by Ken Robinson, WTAM)
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