File Photo: A general view of Egypt stadium in the New Administrative Capital. Al-Ahram.
The decision, reached during a meeting with the Egyptian Football Association (EFA), Egyptian Pro League, and security officials, paves the way for a return to near-full capacity crowds for domestic and continental matches.
Previously limited to 20,000 with a 50/50 split between teams, attendance will rise to 30,000 for the Cairo International Stadium and Borg El-Arab Stadium. All other stadiums will operate at full capacity, the ministry wrote on Facebook.
The move comes amid a successful run for Egyptian clubs in African tournaments. Both Ahly and Zamalek played in front of 50,000-strong crowds at the Cairo International Stadium during their recent Champions League and Confederation Cup matches, respectively.
The increased capacity will be particularly relevant for the upcoming CAF Champions League final second leg on 25 May, where Ahly will host Tunisian club Esperance at the Cairo International Stadium. Similarly, Zamalek will take on Moroccan club RS Berkane in the Confederation Cup final second leg on 19 May at the same venue, both potentially benefiting from a passionate home crowd.
This announcement marks a gradual return to normalcy for Egyptian football fans. Attendance restrictions began at 6,000 in the previous season before rising to 10,000 and then 20,000 with the current season.
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