Covid-19: Crowd restrictions to be lifted for Scottish outdoor sporting events



SPFL games have been played in front of restricted numbers.

The first minister confirmed that full crowds can return to Scottish outdoor sporting events on Monday.

Covid restrictions were introduced by the Scottish government.

The winter break was brought forward by the Scottish Premiership.

Edinburgh and Glasgow played in front of restricted numbers at the weekend, but other leagues have continued as scheduled.

The first minister stated that she will offer clarity next week, but no update was given for indoor sporting events such as ice hockey matches which had seated attendances reduced to 200.

The first minister said that the "covid certification scheme will remain in place" but with two important changes.

The guidance will now state that the certification status of at least 50% of the attendees should be checked, rather than the current 20%, or at least 1,000 people.

If the second dose was more than four months ago, a booster will be required for Covid certification.

It is possible to gain admission to events and venues covered by the certification scheme if you provide proof of a recent negative flow test.

There are restrictions on outdoor events.

Two rounds of games were postponed because the games were played in front of mostly empty grounds.

The first game of the postponed rounds is Monday's meeting of Celtic and Hibs. The other round of matches will be played in February.

The Championship, Leagues 1 and 2, and the SWPL all have games this weekend before the restrictions are lifted.

Rugby's Six Nations will be played in front of full crowds when it starts next month. Scotland will host England and France in this year's championship.