Patriots announce plans for reduced capacity at Gillette Stadium in 2020

In a statement released Tuesday, the New England Patriots announced plans to host fans in the Gillette Stadium stands at roughly 20 percent of its capacity during the 2020 NFL season.

Those plans for home games in Foxborough are contingent upon state and local approval.

Should fans be permitted amid the coronavirus pandemic, preliminary safety protocols have also been put in place by the organization.

“Ticketed parties will be asked to maintain physical distancing of at least six feet from other parties, tickets will be arranged in blocks of 10 seats or less, and the first eight rows of stadium seats will not be used,” the Patriots’ statement read in part. “Additionally, face coverings will be required at all times inside the stadium to keep all attendees safe.”

Walk-up sales at the team ticket office will be suspended and all tickets will go mobile. The Putnam Club and season ticket-holders will have the first opportunity to purchase individual game tickets. And after the member process is completed, remaining tickets will go on sale to the general public.

Gameday parking in all Gillette Stadium lots is set to be free of charge.

The Patriots are currently scheduled to kick off the regular season at 1 p.m. ET on Sept. 13 against the Miami Dolphins.