Falcons to allow limited number of fans on Oct. 11

The Atlanta Falcons announced Tuesday that they will allow a limited number of fans into Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Oct. 11 for their game against the Carolina Panthers.

The Atlanta Falcons announced Tuesday that they will allow a limited number of fans into Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Oct. 11 for their game against the Carolina Panthers. The team decided last month to play September home games without fans, due to the coronavirus pandemic. But with a decline of cases in Georgia, the team is moving forward with limited capacity for the Oct. 11 game, as well as for home matches involving the Atlanta United MLS team.

"We are thrilled to invite fans of both the Falcons and Atlanta United back to Mercedes-Benz Stadium," says Steve Cannon, CEO, AMB Sports and Entertainment. "Having fans watch from alternative locations was a difficult, but important decision. It's been challenging for both teams to play without fans, but their well-being, as well as the safety of our associates and fans, was paramount."

The team is allowing 500 friends, family, and associates for the Falcons' home game this Sunday against the Chicago Bears as a dry run on protocols and operations.