The Brentford vs Chelsea quarter final, happening on Wednesday the 22nd of December at 7:45 pm, is all the Brentford FC fans can talk about.  But, with uncertainty about Covid regulations, how will the club manage the crowds of Bee supporters while staying Covid safe? 

 

To keep up to date with current covid regulations and try and stay as safe as possible, Brentford FC are requiring fans fill in a compulsory ‘Covid-19 Certification’ form when booking tickets. In it, they must certify they will not attend any match with COVID-19 symptoms and will bring an NHS Covid pass/international equivalent or email/text proof of a negative test during the 48 hours before the match, which they will show upon request. Fans must also certify that they understand that the law requires the above and that the inability to show either may result in being refused entry to the stadium. The final box to tick on the short form is to agree that if they falsely certify anything on the form, the Club may ban them from matches at the Stadium or withdraw their Club Season Ticket or Membership. 

 

The club then goes on to associate the provided information with the persons Fan number and use it to ensure the person understands the Governments COVID-19 requirements for matches at the stadium and have committed to comply with them. The Certification remains for the rest of the current football season and will be deleted once it ends or there is no need for the current regulations to be met (for example, a change  COVID-19 rules). 

 

But how do the Brentford fans feel about this? 

One season ticket holder said, “(I) received clear info from the club about certifying I had my vaccine and it was simple and quick to tick a box. Personally (I) have no problem showing my vaccine status if it means we can try to protect ourselves and others and keep sports going with fans in attendance.” 

 

When asked if they thought everyone would feel that way, the fan responded, “Unfortunately no, but I feel more comfortable that the club is able to ensure fans who have decided not to get vaccinated aren't exposed to the virus.” 

 

Despite the worries about rising COVID-19 cases, it seems there is still plenty of excitement for the approaching game and optimism among Brentford fans about the outcome.  “The Bees had Chelsea on the ropes for the second half of their recent premiership game and the Chelsea side is without a lot of first choice players tonight. Come on the Bees!".