‘Every seat full’ in Puskás Aréna for Euro 2020

Hungary is set to host three group games and one last-16 game, with the proposal for full stadiums subject to spectators fulfilling strict entry requirements.

A spokesman for Magyar Labdarúgó Szövetség, MLSZ, the Hungarian Football Federation, said: “We want, if the epidemiological situation allows, as many fans as possible to watch the matches in the Puskás Aréna, with maximum compliance with safety and epidemiological regulations.”

Non-resident ticket holders traveling to Budapest would be required to present proof of negative results from two Covid-19 tests performed in the five days preceding entry into Hungary, or a valid certificate of previous Covid-19 infection within six months before entry into the country.

Puskás Aréna welcomed 15,180 fans for Bayern Munich’s UEFA Super Cup 2-1 victory over Sevilla last September, since when the stadium has been empty for Hungary’s internationals and a handful of European Champions League club games switched from England and Germany.

UEFA confirmed on April 9 that eight of the 12 host cities for this summer’s Euro 2020 from June 11 to July 11 will have spectators attending games. These are London, Glasgow, Amsterdam, Copenhagen, St Petersburg, Budapest, Baku and Bucharest.

The four remaining cities – Munich, Rome, Bilbao and Dublin – have until April 19 to provide additional information on their plans before final decisions are made whether they can host matches.

The tournament has been delayed a year because of the coronavirus pandemic. Host associations had been asked to submit plans to accept fans by April 7.

Budapest is alone at present in aiming to host spectators at full capacity. Baku and St Petersburg have confirmed a 50 percent capacity, although the Russian city is hoping to increase this figure.

Hungary, Azerbaijan and Russia are the only nations that are planning exemptions from entry restrictions and requirements. Ticket holders travelling to these countries may be able to avoid entry bans or quarantine requirements.

Amsterdam, Bucharest, Copenhagen and Glasgow have confirmed a minimum capacity of 25-33 percent, although this could yet rise for the venues in the Netherlands, Romania and Denmark.

The English Football Association expects 25 percent of Wembley to be full for its three group matches and one last-16 game, and is hoping to have more fans for both semi-finals and the final.

Budapest is scheduled to host three Group F matches, Hungary versus holders Portugal on June 15, Hungary versus France on June 19 and Portugal versus France on June 23, and a round of 16 match on June 27.

Hungary’s opposition Democratic Coalition has said it is an “eerie coincidence” that the Fidesz government announced the relaxation of the country’s pandemic rules would take place on the very day of the UEFA deadline for the 12 host cities to say whether they would be able to allow fans during Euro 2020.

UEFA said it “wishes to express its appreciation to its member associations and the national and local authorities who are collaborating closely in ensuring the safe return of spectators to the stadium”.