The EFL can confirm that the Sky Bet Play-Off Semi-Finals and Finals will see a return of supporters in the Championship, League One and League Two.
Further to the Government’s announcement outlining that the country will move to Step 3 on its COVID-19 roadmap from 17 May, Clubs will now be able to legally welcome fans back into EFL stadia for these vital fixtures, marking another welcome milestone along the road to full return of fans.
EFL Clubs will now determine with the relevant local Safety Advisory Groups the exact number of supporters that will be able to attend each fixture in line with national guidelines. Announcements on ticketing will be made by individual Clubs in due course.
The League and its Clubs remain in proactive advanced discussions with the Welsh Government in respect of supporters permitted to attend the home legs of both Swansea City and Newport County’s respective Play-Off Semi-Finals. We are confident a successful outcome will be achieved shortly, and we will look to confirm as soon as possible.
Given the operational challenges Clubs would face hosting both home and away supporters, it has been agreed that there will be no away fans in attendance during the Sky Bet EFL Play-Off Semi-Finals.
Fans of eventual Play-Off Finalists will be permitted to attend the EFL’s showpiece Sky Bet Play-Off Finals scheduled to kick off at the end of the month.
EFL Chief Executive, Trevor Birch said: “We are delighted to welcome back fans for the Sky Bet Play-Offs which will be fantastic for our competition and another significant step towards the EFL’s aspiration of having full stadia at the start of next season. Discussions remain ongoing with the Welsh Government in respect of the position in Wales, but all parties appreciate the importance of seeing fans return for these games.
“Over the course of the past 12 months, our Clubs have implemented stringent protocols and have worked tirelessly to overcome unprecedented challenges this campaign. Fans’ return at this climax of the season is just reward for Semi-Finalist Clubs who will now use their significant expertise in crowd management to ensure supporters can enjoy a safe and enjoyable return to their much-loved home grounds.
“We are thankful to all those who have helped ensure fans will be able to support their Clubs in important fixtures through the Semi-Finals and we look forward to welcoming fans in yet greater numbers at the Play-Off Finals.”