Braves, Mercedes-Benz Stadium Will Return To Full Capacity In May

ATLANTA, GA — Both Truist Park and Mercedes-Benz Stadium will increase seating capacities to 100 percent starting as early as May 7, stadium officials announced within a minute of each other Wednesday.

Braves officials said normal Truist Park seating will begin May 7 as the team begins its third homestand of the season against the Philadelphia Phillies. AMB Sports and Entertainment (AMBSE) — the parent company of the Atlanta Falcons, Atlanta United and Mercedes-Benz Stadium — said the capacity change will begin with the Atlanta United match May 15 against CF Montreal.

Officials from both entities cited increased access to COVID-19 vaccinations as well as the health and safety protocols already in place at the two stadiums contributed to the increased capacity decisions.

“We have had great success welcoming our fans back safely to Truist Park,” said Derek Schiller, president and CEO of the Atlanta Braves. “Our outdoor environment, the demand from our season ticket holders and fans to watch us play in person plus safety measures which are in place make it feel that now is the right time to get back to full capacity at Truist Park.”

Additionally, the Atlanta Falcons are planning for full capacity for games at the start of the season in the fall, per a statement from National Football League Commissioner Roger Goodell.

“We are excited to bring our fans back to Mercedes-Benz Stadium,” said Steve Cannon, CEO of AMBSE. “Given the increased opportunity for Georgians to be vaccinated, the abundant health protocols we have in place at the stadium and the interest from our season ticket members, we felt that now is the right time to re-open the stadium in full capacity allowing all our season ticket members a chance to enjoy watching their teams in person. We will continue to follow the necessary precautions to give fans a safe and clean environment.”

Face coverings are still required at both stadiums, and hand sanitizing stations will still be available throughout Truist Park and Mercedes-Benz Stadium.