Bayern Munich, Schalke match to be played without fans

BERLIN

The opening match of the 2020-2021 Bundesliga season will be played without fans because of an increase in coronavirus cases in Munich.

Munich Mayor Dieter Reiter said cases increased to 47.6 per 100,000 in Munich in the last seven days.

"I cannot let thousands of people go to the stadium in such a situation," he said. “The coronavirus crisis is not over yet. Everyone should be aware of this.”

A decision was made earlier that football stadiums would be allowed a capacity of 20% for spectators in Germany.

Bayern Munich was ready to welcome 7,500 fans to watch for the match against Schalke 04 at the Allianz Arena in the opening match Friday.

Reiter added that he knows the decision is sad for the fans and both clubs.

*Writing by Muhammed Enes Calli