Kerala Blasters to play opening home game with 50% crowd capacity

Kerala Blasters FC will play their opening fixture of the Indian Super League 2024-25 with half capacity in the stadium, the club announced on Friday.

The decision is taken in the wake of ongoing Thiruvonam celebrations across Kerala. Kerala Blasters ply their trade in Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Kochi.

Taking to social media, the club announced," The capacity for the opening game on September 15th will be limited to 50%, in light of Thiruvonam celebrations across Kerala. This decision was taken after discussions with the relevant stakeholders and reflects our commitment to supporting essential services and matchday operations partners whose hard work is vital to matchday operations."

"While we would have loved to welcome a full stadium, given the high demand for the season opener, we also recognize the critical role played by essential services and operations partners. Their work begins well before the game, often starting the night before, and continues late into the night after the match. By reducing the stadium capacity, we aim to ease the load on these dedicated individuals, allowing them to enjoy at least some part of this special festival with their families," the post read further.

The 11th season of the Indian Super League kicks off today with Mohun Bagan SG taking on Mumbai City FC in Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata. Kerala Blasters will play their first game against Punjab FC on 15th September.

Known for packed stadiums, the club would hope to have a rousing crowd in the opening game.