The measures were introduced for our men’s team’s opening Premier League fixture at Stamford Bridge, meaning those in attendance for that 3-0 win over Crystal Palace may already be aware of some of the regulations, but all supporters should ensure they are familiar with these rules before this Saturday’s match with Aston Villa.

The new regulations for the 2021/22 season also apply to home games for Chelsea Women, who will play in front of fans at Kingsmeadow for the first time since government Covid-19 restrictions were lifted in England, as we look for our first win of the campaign against Everton on Sunday.

It is important that supporters attending those matches at Stamford Bridge and Kingsmeadow this weekend are aware of the regulation changes which have taken place at both venues recently.

Bag size restrictions

Chelsea Football Club takes the safety and security of our supporters and colleagues extremely seriously. Together with the police and other partners we continually review our operations to ensure we meet the exacting standards required of venues such as Stamford Bridge and Kingsmeadow.

Please note we have modified our entry conditions in relation to bag sizes and will now apply a strict limit on the size of bags which can be taken into our stadiums.

No bags larger than A4 will be permitted. This equates to 30cm x 20cm x 10cm, about the size of a standard handbag. This will improve security and also reduce congestion during your entry to the site and into the stadium.

Please note that due to a lack of space, baggage deposit facilities will not be available so you are strongly advised not to bring any bags to Stamford Bridge or Kingsmeadow.

Covid-19 requirements

Supporters attending our home matches this season will be required to provide evidence they are at low risk of transmitting Covid-19. This is to increase the safety and comfort of our supporters, players and staff as we host large crowds again.

This can be done through proof of full Covid-19 vaccination (with both doses received at least 14 days prior to the match) or proof of a negative Lateral Flow Test (LFT – from age 11 and over) carried out within 48 hours of the fixture kicking off.

Supporters will be required to wear masks in all indoor areas of the stadiums, including the concourses, except when they are eating or drinking. Masks are not required when seated or walking outside the stadium.

We also strongly encourage the use of hand-washing facilities and hand sanitisers which are located throughout Stamford Bridge and Kingsmeadow.

Please understand that these standards apply to all supporters and that anyone who refuses this process will not be permitted to enter.

Thank you for your help and co-operation in helping to make Chelsea home games a safer and more enjoyable experience.