Fans will be asked to pass through a tunnel equipped with thermal imaging cameras for Rome’s staging of UEFA Euro 2020 games at the Stadio Olimpico.
The procedure will be part of COVID-19 protection measures contained in a safety plan developed by Rome police, according to broadcaster Sky Italia. The Stadio Olimpico will host the opening game of the postponed Euro 2020, Italy v Turkey, on Friday.
The tunnel will reportedly be positioned between the first ticket verification and security checkpoint areas, before fans enter the Olimpico. As the fans pass through the tunnel, the thermal cameras will analyse their body temperature.
In April, Rome confirmed it would be able to host the opening ceremony and first match of Euro 2020 after Italian authorities agreed to a plan that would allow at least 18,000 fans to attend games at the Stadio Olimpico.
The Italian capital was earlier one of four host cities granted extra time by UEFA to provide additional information concerning their plans for Euro 2020 and give assurances fans would be able to attend.
Sports Minister Valentina Vezzali confirmed in writing that the government would commit to having at least 25% capacity at the 72,000-seat Stadio Olimpico – which would be around 18,000 spectators – for the four scheduled Euro 2020 games.
However, Sky Italia said around 14,000 fans are currently expected for the opener, with the Olimpico also due to host Italy’s other two group games and a quarter-final.
Image: ildirettore/CC BY 3.0/Edited for size
