SEC announces fan attendance, COVID-19 protocols for championship game in Atlanta

ATLANTA — The Southeastern Conference announced Tuesday that fans will be allowed to attend its championship game in Atlanta.

The conference said up to 16,500 fans can attend the matchup between SEC West winners Alabama and SEC East winners Florida. The game, currently scheduled for Saturday Dec. 19 at 8 p.m., is already sold out, according to officials.

There will be COVID-19 protocols in place at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mask and face coverings will be required in all areas at the stadium. There will also be social distancing in place, where fans must stay 6 feet apart from others.

Fans who are experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19 are asked to stay home.

The SEC also said Tuesday that tailgating will be allowed in the Home Depot Backyard and M Lot with COVID-19 protocols in place. Fans must have a ticket to the championship game to tailgate and there must be at least one space between vehicles.

Tailgating will only be allowed within seating groups for the game and not with other parties. Masks are strongly encouraged while tailgating but required in the common areas such as restrooms.

Parking lots will open at 3 p.m. and the gates will open at 6:30 p.m.

Cox Media Group