CBA to allow spectators into arena from July 26

BEIJING- The Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) league will see limited spectators back in arenas from July 26 before being fully open to fans from July 31 when the playoffs commence, the league's governing body announced on Thursday.

Only medical staff, teachers and policemen will be eligible to watch CBA games from July 26.

The CBA said that, in accordance with the latest local anti-virus measures and relevant regulations, fans will have to buy tickets through a real-name online registration system and enter the arena with their ID.

Entrance is open to fans age 12 and over who have tested negative for COVID-19 within 48 hours.

The arena's capacity is limited, with fans required to sit one meter away from each other and undergo a body temperature test before entry.

To safeguard spectators' health and safety, each spectator can only buy one ticket at a time. They are required to take a COVID-19 test at a specific place and time, and can purchase their ticket for games within 48 hours after receiving negative results.

Spectators also have to wear face masks throughout the matches and keep one meter away from others when leaving the arena.