Fans could return to the stands, Mecklenburg health director expresses confidence in Panthers’ safety protocols

Next Friday, Oct. 2, large-capacity outdoor venues are expected to reopen, with some restrictions. The Panthers plan to host fans two days later.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Fans will be roaring again soon in Bank of America Stadium, and Mecklenburg County health officials feel assured of the safety protections that will be in place.
Next Friday, October 2, Gov. Roy Cooper is expected to ease COVID-19 restrictions for large outdoor venues, allowing places that hold more than 10,000 people to reopen at seven percent capacity. The statewide stadium policy changes will happen in time to allow visitors back into Bank of America Stadium for the Panthers’ next home game against the Arizona Cardinals on October 4.
While giving an update on the county’s COVID-19 response Friday afternoon, Mecklenburg County’s health director Gibbie Harris said she felt confident about the team’s safety protocols.
“We’ve been working with them for several months on