Philadelphia Union lifting mask requirement for vaccinated fans

Masks at Subaru Park will no longer be a requirement for fully vaccinated fans beginning at tomorrow night’s Philadelphia Union game against the New York Red Bulls.

The Philadelphia Union made the announcement on Friday following the guidance from the Centers for Disease Control, which has said that individuals who are fully vaccinated do not need to wear masks.

“Beginning with the May 15 match against New York Red Bulls, masks are no longer required for vaccinated fans at Subaru Park based upon CDC and Pennsylvania guidelines but are strongly recommended for all fans unless actively eating or drinking,” the news release states. “Additionally, staff, stadium security, and concession workers will still be required to wear masks. Any attending written media or photographers will be required to wear a face covering per Major League Soccer media operations guidelines.”

Fans will not be required to show proof of vaccinations, which effectively means all fans will be “strongly recommended” but not required to wear masks.

The team also announced Friday that they will be increasing capacity to 75 percent at their home stadium for the May 30 game against Portland Timbers before going to near capacity on June 23 against the Columbus Crew. While the stadium will be upped to full capacity, there will still be sections made available for fans who wish to socially distance.