Bayern Munich confirmed Tuesday that their Champions League match against Chelsea at the Allianz Arena on March 18 will be played behind closed doors in an effort to try and stop the spread of the coronavirus.
The announcement comes after the Bavarian state government banned public gatherings of 1,000 people or more until April 19.
“FC Bayern is thus implementing the decree of the Bavarian state government, which was issued to protect the population,” read a statement from the Bundesliga club.
“The aim is to minimize the risk of coronavirus infection. The district administration department of the city of Munich responsible for approvals today informed FC Bayern of the conditions under which next Wednesday’s Champions League match against Chelsea FC may take place.
“Only persons contracted to work for the operation of the match are permitted to attend. TV coverage is guaranteed by the rights holder.”
Bayern added that a decision as to whether other matches will be affected by the government’s ruling has yet to be made.
The German club beat Chelsea 3-0 in the first leg at Stamford Bridge on Feb. 25.
The upcoming last-16 encounter is the fourth Champions League match that’s scheduled to be played without supporters in …read more