The earliest fans will be allowed inside Jamaica’s National Stadium to see the Reggae Boyz play in January 2022, according to Minister of Local Government and Rural Development Desmond McKenzie.
This means that the Boyz will once again play a home game inside an empty stadium on November 16 in their crucial World Cup qualifier against the United States.
McKenzie, in a statement, said consideration could be given to allowing fully vaccinated individuals to attend sporting events inside the stadium as of January.
The Jamaica Football Federation had asked the Government to consider allowing vaccinated spectators inside the National Stadium for the October 10 encounter between Reggae Boyz and Canada that ended in a 0-0 scoreline but was denied.
McKenzie explained that, during a meeting with several stakeholders on Wednesday, “We examined the possibility of allowing fully vaccinated spectators to attend the November 16 game and concluded that given our delicate stage of managing the pandemic, as well as the extensive logistical inputs needed to ensure that only vaccinated persons enter the venue, it was simply not practical to give the green light for public access to this game”.
“However, discussions will continue regarding the possibility of allowing vaccinated spectators into the ‘Office’ for the following World Cup qualifying home match against Mexico on January 27, 2022. These consultations will, of course, be influenced by the continuous monitoring of the COVID-19 indicators in the country, including the positivity rate. Once a decision is arrived at, an announcement will be made in due course,” McKenzie added in the statement.
The minister has urged fans to enjoy the upcoming game from the comfort of their homes.
“Until that time, I ask that all our football fans tune in and enjoy the November game remotely. The impact of sport on social well-being, social development, and the local economies of communities is well recognized. This Administration will take all responsible measures to promote the return of spectator participation in sport in the safest way possible, in the shortest possible time,” said McKenzie.
