NFL announces Super Bowl LV will host 22,000 fans, 7,500 healthcare workers
This year's Super Bowl will look very different than in years past due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. However, Raymond James Stadium in Tampa Bay won't be completely empty.
The NFL announced Friday that 22,000 fans will be allowed to attend Super Bowl LV. 7,500 of those fans will be vaccinated healthcare workers being given free tickets.
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell recently surprised healthcare workers at Sarasota Memorial Hospital in Florida with tickets to the game via Zoom. More healthcare workers in the Tampa Bay area will also be surprised with tickets from Goodell.
Raymond James Stadium can seat 65,618 fans. With only 22,000 people attending the Super Bowl, they'll be well spread out throughout the stadium to comply with COVID-19 protocols and social distancing measures.
In October, ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that fans would be seated in pods six feet apart and masks would be required except for when actively eating or drinking at the Super Bowl.
The Green Bay Packers and Tampa Bay Buccaneers will play for the NFC title this weekend, while the Kansas City Chiefs and Buffalo Bills will square off for the AFC title. It would be an extra special moment if Tom Brady can lead the Buccaneers to a Super Bowl in their home stadium.
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