The Colorado Rapids will allow 7,897 fans in attendance at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park starting with their home opener April 24 against Austin FC, Kroenke Sports and Entertainment announced Tuesday.
Both the Tri-County Health Department and MLS approved the Rapids’ plans to host 44% of the venue’s total capacity.
“As we get ready to kick off the new season, we are delighted to reopen DICK’s Sporting Goods Park to 7,897 Rapids fans,” KSE Vice Chairman Josh Kroenke said in a statement. “Our supporters play a special role in our club and we have eagerly awaited their return since March of 2020. This gradual reopening of our stadium is part of our on-going prioritization of the health and safety of our fans, staff, players and frontline workers and that will remain a key priority for us as an organization.”
According to the release, KSE requested advice and approval from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) and Tri-County Health Department.
In March, the Rapids’ outdoor counterpart, the Colorado Rockies, were granted a variance to allow 21,000 fans into Coors Field (42.6% of capacity). The Colorado Avalanche and the Denver Nuggets have been approved to host 4,050 fans (22% capacity) indoors at Ball Arena.
“Obviously, we are thrilled to be back at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park and we are excited to provide a great atmosphere for the Rapids,” a statement from the Rapids’ supporters group Centennial 38 read. “We want to thank the Colorado Rapids, Colorado Department of Health, Commerce City and Adams County for working with us and bringing us back to the stadium to support the club we love.”
The Rapids are set for the season opener at FC Dallas on Saturday.
They will play a total of 17 home games. Colorado Governor Jared Polis indicated a packed Coors Field for the All-Star Game on July 13, which indicates the number of fans at Rapids games could grow as the season goes on.
“The state is pulling back on restrictions in mid-April. I think everybody expects a fully-packed sellout stadium in July, and that’s going to be good for Major League Baseball, good for Colorado and an exciting experience for fans,” Polis said.
