Scottish clubs must still apply for permission for bigger crowds from Monday

The country is moving 'beyond Level 0' restrictions from Monday but capacity crowds are yet to be given the green light

Published 3rd Aug 2021
Last updated 3rd Aug 2021

Scottish football clubs will need to continue applying for permission for bigger crowds at games from Monday.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has announced the country will be moving 'beyond Level 0' in coronavirus restrictions next week.

However, football clubs haven't been given the green light to host capacity crowds again.

She said: "While we expect the careful return of large scale events we will, for a limited period, keep in place the processes through which organisers of outdoor events of more than 5,000 and indoor events of more than 2,000 will have to apply for permission.

"This will allow us and local authorities to be assured of the arrangements in place to reduce risk."

Clubs currently have to apply for crowds bigger than 2,000 in Level 0 - with this now increasing to 5,000 from Monday.

These applications are sent to the local authority of each club who make the decision on a case-by-case basis.

Matches in Scotland have already hosted crowds of well over 5,000 - with around 23,000 inside Ibrox as they kicked off their Premiership campaign against Livingston.

Current restrictions remain in place for this weekend's fixtures with Celtic hosting 24,500 fans for their top flight game against Dundee on Saturday.