(WXYZ) — The Detroit Lions announced Friday that there will be no fans at the first two Detroit Lions games at Ford Field this season.
The Lions take on the Chicago Bears and New Orleans Saints on Sept. 13 and Oct. 4.
The third home game is Nov. 1 against the Indianapolis Colts, and it's not clear if fans will be allowed to attend that game, or any other 2020 season games. Those decisions will be evaluated as the year continues.
"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,” said Lions Team President Rod Wood. “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.”
All other areas of Ford Field will be closed to fans during the first two games, including parking lots and Ford Field businesses.
If fans will be allowed in the game, they will have to wear face coverings at all times.
The Lions have also made several updates to Ford Field. Those include:
- 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
- Plexiglass at every point of sale location throughout stadium
- Points of sale have been adapted to process cashless transactions
- Electrostatic sprayers that enable a quick and effective disinfecting process
- Food options to be pre-prepared and properly packaged
