New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo announced on Thursday that Yankee Stadium and Citi Field may operate under 20% capacity to open the 2021 season. This is a change from the previous 10% capacity allowed for all professional sporting events. Indoor events must remain under 10% capacity.
To attend Yankees or Mets games, fans will either have to show proof of a full COVID-19 vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of any given game. Masks and social distancing are required while seats will be divided into pods of up to eight people.
“We are heartened by the Governor’s decision to allow us to begin the season at Yankee Stadium with a 20% capacity and offer our deep appreciation for his office’s diligent work and guidance,” Yankees owner Hal Steinbrenner said in a statement. “This will be a very special year in the Bronx, and we will continue to work together with the State of New York, Mayor Bill de Blasio and the City of New York, Major League Baseball, and other health and safety experts to utilize the best and most responsible practices in our facility. We are fully committed to providing a world-class experience at Yankee Stadium in every respect.â€
Both teams hope that as COVID-19 cases decrease and vaccination numbers increase, capacity numbers can increase later in the season. Cuomo will revisit the seating capacities for both ballparks in the coming weeks and months.
