National League start date revealed - but stadium capacities will be "significantly reduced"

The campaign will kick-off later than the Premier League and Football League (September 12) so that clubs can allow some supporters to attend games.

However, stadium capacities will be “significantly reduced from normal levels” and will depend on the design and layout of each ground.

There will be 46 league fixtures played as normal and the final match of the regular campaign will take place on May 29, 2021.

The play-offs will start in June.

The season end date and play-off start date are both subject to approval by the Football Association.

Pre-season friendlies will more than likely have to be played behind closed doors.

The safe return of supporters will be based on the government’s Covid-19 guidance on the phased return of sport.

In a letter to clubs, National League chief executive, Mike Tattersall, said: “In terms of crowd numbers, it is likely that ground capacities will be significantly reduced from normal levels. The ‘socially distanced’ capacity for each stadium will vary according to the design, layout and configuration of each ground, and will need to be assessed by each club in compliance with government guidance and in conjunction with their local authority.”

Either 42 or 40 league fixtures will be played in the National League North and South.

Those divisions will start their season on October 3 but it will commence with the FA Cup second qualifying round ties.

The National League said more details about the FA Cup and FA Trophy will be released in due course.