Half-capacity crowds authorized for start of Wimbledon

The government of England has authorized half-capacity crowds for the start of Wimbledon, increasing to full stands for the final rounds of the grass-court major.

That is significantly higher than the 25 percent capacity originally planned by the All England Club. The tournament confirmed in a press release that it would have its grounds at half capacity through the first 12 days, and a full capacity of 15,000 spectators on Centre Court for the women's and men's finals.

If that holds up, Wimbledon finals weekend would be the first British sporting event played at full capacity since the start of the coronavirus pandemic.

The move comes even as the government limited further lifting of other restrictions, citing increasing cases across the country. Some other big sporting events like the European soccer championships have also been allowed to have stands up to 50 percent.

"In the next few weeks, this means more fans enjoying the Euros and Wimbledon, and some of our biggest cultural and sports events," said Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden.

The tournament will announce further details about entry requirements and ticket sales.