In a period of lingering uncertainty, the Browns provided season-ticket holders an update, information and options in a letter Thursday.
The Browns are expecting a severely limited capacity at FirstEnergy Stadium and advised season-ticket holders the season will look “very different” because of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
The organization is giving season-ticket holders the ability to opt out of the 2020 season while retaining their seats for 2021. Fans can apply their 2020 payments to 2021 or get a refund.
Even if the members do not opt out for 2020, the Browns can’t guarantee they will receive tickets to a specific number of games or for particular seats.
The Browns said they and the NFL remain confident games will be played, but the likelihood of them being played in full stadiums is “low.” Though the exact number of fans that will be permitted isn’t yet known, it’s likely to be around 15,000. Capacity is 67,895.
The Baltimore Ravens announced Wednesday they would have fewer than 14,000 fans at M&T Bank Stadium — if fans are permitted.
The Browns will institute physical distancing requirements, mandate facial coverings and distribute the fans throughout the stadium. They are in regular communication with local and state governments, health departments and other medical experts.
Protocols aren’t finalized and the team said it will provide further updates. It reminded fans situations remain fluid and evolving.
“We are energized by your passion and are diligently preparing to open the 2020 season with health and safety as our highest priority,” the letter said.
