Detroit Lions: No Fans At First Two Home Games

DETROIT, MI — Detroit Lions fans will have to wait a little longer to see their team in action. The organization announced Friday that due to the uncertainty surrounding the coronavirus pandemic, fans will not be able to attend the Lions first two home games of the season.

Detroit hosts Chicago and New Orleans during its first two games. The team will evaluate and determine at a later date if fans will be allowed to attend its third game, against the Indianapolis Colts.

"We have spent considerable time and resources implementing new gameday protocols at Ford Field and are ready to host fans at Lions games once approved by state guidelines," Lions Team President Rod Wood said in a statement. "The health and safety of our players, coaches and staff, has been a focal point for all facets of 2020 season planning as demonstrated by being one of the first teams to gain approval from the NFL and NFLPA for meeting training camp COVID-19 requirements. We have the utmost confidence that we can provide a safe and enjoyable experience for fans at our stadium.

"Lions fans have traditionally created an intimidating environment for visiting teams at Ford Field and, even in a reduced capacity, will be missed when we kick off the season against our division rival, the Chicago Bears. We are hopeful for an opportunity to host fans at the remaining six 2020 home games."

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All other areas at Ford Field will be closed to fans during the first two home games, including parking lots and other Ford Field businesses such as Blitz and The Stadium Collection.

If and when fans are allowed to attend games, they will be required to wear face coverings at all times, all tickets will be mobile, and designated gates and entry times will be assigned to all incoming fans, the team said.

The Lions organization said it has invested in several infrastructure updates to Ford Field to ensure the safest possible guest experience including a new air filtration system, more than 250 touchless hand sanitizer stands throughout concourses along with touchless faucets, toilets and paper towel dispensers in every restroom.