Euro 2020 has finally started after being pushed to 2021 because of the COVID-19 outbreak. Although this is amazing news for every football fan around the world this does not mean that the pandemic has disappeared and that we can all go back to watching football normally. There are still many Covid restrictions and rules that we have to follow in order to make the best of the Euros.

As we know, the Euro’s is a huge tournament that includes many different countries and cities meaning that the rules will vary every game but there are some rules that apply for every city:

• Masks are compulsory in and around the stadium.
• A minimum distance of 1.50 metres must be maintained.
• Only the seat indicated on the ticket may be used.
• Washing and disinfecting hands is recommended. Disinfectant will be available throughout the stadium for this purpose.
• Handshakes, hugs, high fives and close contact with others are to be avoided.
• Everyone should also stay in their seats during halftime and limit movement as much as possible.
• Signs in the stadium will point the way.
• Anyone who feels unwell or has symptoms of Covid-19 should not go into the stadium.

The ticket holders will only have a 30-minute allocated slot to enter the stadiums prior to kick off so you might have to arrive well in advance of the event.

There are some different rules for each city.  Most stadiums will allow  a capacity of 12,000-61,000 fans depending on the capacity of the stadium, except Budapest which will allow full capacity. You are also required to show a 72 hour negative COVID test or proof of vaccination at every stadium.

These rules and restrictions can make watching the games harder.  They are there to keep us safe and make sure we have a good time during the Euros. This tournament is giving us a small taste of what life used to be before Covid-19.