Shuttershock
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Kansas City Chiefs are set to face off for the Lombardi Trophy at Raymond James Stadium in Super Bowl 55 on Sunday, February 7.
Because of the coronavirus pandemic, there will be limited seating, but the NFL has raised the capacity for the venue.
Previously, the league had announced 22,500 fans would be allowed in the stands.
Now, Ian Rapoport is reporting the league will have 25,000 fans in attendance. Raymond James Capacity is around 65,000, so the remaining 30,000 seats will be filled with cardboard cutouts to present a sold-out look.
According to the NFL: The official attendance at Raymond James Stadium for Super Bowl LV will be: 25,000 fans and 30,000 cutouts.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 2, 2021
Out of the 25,000, 7,500 will be given out for free to health care workers who have received the COVID-19 vaccine. NFL commissioner Roger Goodell surprised a group of nurses and front line workers with the news.
“We owe them our ongoing gratitude,” Goodell said. “We hope in a small way that this initiative will inspire our country and recognize these true American heroes.”
The NFL is inviting 7,500 vaccinated health care workers to attend Super Bowl LV to thank and honor them for their continued extraordinary service during the pandemic.
To celebrate, @nflcommish surprised Sarasota Memorial Hospital health care workers with tickets to #SBLV. pic.twitter.com/iurMY0BvMM
— NFL (@NFL) January 22, 2021
Kickoff between the Buccaneers and Chiefs is set for 6:30 p.m. ET on CBS.
