3 Australian Open Stadia To Be At Least 25% Capacity
Tennis Australia today announced that ticket sales for the Australian Open 2021, set to take place from 8-21 February, will begin at 25 per cent capacity in the Grand Slam’s three main stadiums: Rod Laver Arena, Margaret Court Arena and John Cain Arena.
Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, tournament organisers are taking new steps to ensure the safety of those at Melbourne Park, including dividing the venue into three zones, with each including one of those three stadiums.
“As we work closely with the Victorian government, [we] hope to be in a position to increase our numbers as we get closer to the event,” Tournament Director Craig Tiley said in a press release.
The Australian Open has a COVIDSafe plan, part of which includes tickets being sold in family “pods” of between one and six tickets each to help with social distancing. Tickets will be digital in 2021 to minimise touchpoints and help with contact tracing.
In addition, the start times of sessions will be staggered to help avoid overcrowding, with Rod Laver Arena and Margaret Court Arena sessions beginning at 11 a.m., and John Cain Arena starting at 12 p.m.
“The AO will be a great celebration for Melbourne and all Victoria after an incredibly tough year,” Tiley said. “Although our event will look a little different as we prioritise the safety of everyone, it’s going to be a fantastic opportunity to come together and experience many of the best things about Melbourne – live, world-class sport in an exciting festival atmosphere.”