Raiders’ stadium to be closed to fans for 2020 season

When the Raiders decided to drop Oakland for Las Vegas, a number of Kansas City Chiefs fans at training camp expressed to me how they were excited to take in a Chiefs road game in Sin City.

COVID-19 has ruined that possibility — at least for 2020.

The Las Vegas Raiders sent an email to their fans on Monday explaining that Allegiant Stadium’s inaugural season would be conducted without fans.

“There is nothing more important to the Raider Organization than the health and safety of our players, coaches, staff, stadium workers and fans,” the club said in a statement. “After intensive consultation with healthcare officials and state and community leaders, we have made the difficult decision to play the Las Vegas Raiders 2020 inaugural season at Allegiant Stadium without fans in attendance. This decision is based on our commitment to protect the health of our fans and the entire community in response to the coronavirus pandemic affecting us all.

“This decision also ensures fairness to you, our PSL holders, given the challenges and potential inequities associated with determining who can and cannot attend specific games if the stadium were to operate at a reduced capacity. While the current situation is not how any of us envisioned celebrating the opening of Allegiant Stadium, when circumstances permit we look forward to sharing an unparalleled game day experience in the magnificent stadium you helped build.”

Patrick Mahomes should be able to begin disappointing Raiders fans in person again in 2021.