According to a new directive announced by LaToya Cantrell, the New Orleans Mayor, fans attending Saints home games will need to present proof of vaccination or a negative CoVID-19PCR test within the past 72 hours.Fans will be required to wear masks even if they're not eating or drinking. The Caesars Superdome is still open to full attendance, but the Saints and the city have not."We are not restricting our capacity. Cantrell stated that vaccinations are necessary for all Louisianans. He cited an increase in COVID-19-related hospitalizations and cases throughout the state.New Orleans is thought to be the first NFL stadium to mandate fans to attend games. The Saints' preseason match against the Jacksonville Jaguars will take place on Monday, August 23rd.Both the NFL and Saints released statements in which they stressed that safety and health are their highest priorities.The Saints stated that they are determined to do everything possible in the current environment to ensure your safety and health, while still providing the best NFL game day experience. We understand that some people will be disappointed, and we are not alone in our situation. As a community, we have been through so much and have always come back stronger. We can all defeat this virus together and continue to live, celebrate, and win the same way as we have always done. You are needed in that number, both on game day as well as in defeating the virus."We are optimistic that with the help of our community, and as vaccination rates rise, these restrictions won't be necessary as the season progresses."Brian McCarthy, a spokesperson for the NFL, said: "As last year, the league will continue to follow the latest guidelines from local, state, and federal public health officials, including the CDC. While we are looking to have full stadiums in the league this season, we will also be flexible and adaptable if necessary. There may be a variation in fan experience depending on what is happening in local markets. This will also happen last season.New Orleans' mandate includes bars, restaurants and breweries as well as gyms, exercise centers, sport complexes, concerts, events spaces, casinos, race tracks, and other venues. New Orleans recently cancelled its Jazz & Heritage Festival that was originally scheduled for October. Cantrell said that she was not for a "shutdown."Cantrell stated, "Unlike last year, this time we have a tool we didn't have -- a vaccination." "And this is the only way to get rid of this virus."
