As the public continues to become vaccinated against COVID-19, the broader sports world is beginning to anticipate and allow the return of fans to live sporting events. The number of fans and the precise date of that glorious reunion remains uncertain – and largely idiosyncratic to local cities/governments – but it’s coming.
For Chicago, specifically, we’ve learned that the Cubs and White Sox are planning for fans as soon as Opening Day (April 1st). And the Blackhawks and Bulls could be there right alongside them:
Just now on @ParkinsSpiegel, Danny mentions that a “source” told him it is possible that the #Blackhawks and #Bulls could have fans in the United Center in a limited capacity (said 10-15%) starting in April. Pending city approval, of course
— Bleacher Nation Blackhawks (@BN_Blackhawks) March 1, 2021
Given the timing, it’s reasonable to assume that the city, in general, expects to open back up in April, likely/hopefully with different relative capacities for indoor and outdoor events. That would mean a smaller percentage of fans for the Bulls and Blackhawks than the Cubs and White Sox, but, hey, it’s an important step forward.
Most of the reporting on this topic remains in its infancy, but we’re pretty clearly trending in the right direction. In all likelihood, it sounds like we’ll be able to watch our favorite teams live, in person, in as soon as a month. That works for me.