No ghost games in Berlin! Senate allows up to 3000 spectators

Professional sport in Germany is facing widespread ghost games – but Berlin is taking a different route. The Senate decided on Thursday against a complete exclusion of spectators and allows outdoor events with up to 3000 people.

Events with up to 2000 people are still permitted in closed rooms. The previous upper limit of 5000 has been reduced. The term of the regulation was extended to January 22, 2022.

The prerequisite is the existence of a corresponding general hygiene concept. In principle, the events also take place according to the 2G-Plus rule, so only those who have been vaccinated or recovered who can also show a current negative Corona test are admitted. It is also compulsory to wear an FFP2 mask. At least mechanical ventilation is required in closed rooms.

“We have decided to proceed in a measured manner, weighing up the risks and protective measures,” said Governing Mayor Franziska Giffey (SPD) on Thursday. It is about maintaining activities in culture, sport or business as far as possible, albeit under restricted conditions. “We have come to the conclusion that this is still better than the complete cancellation.”

The federal and state governments agreed on Tuesday, out of concern about the highly contagious Corona variant Omikron, to completely exclude spectators at major national sports events from December 28th.