Timbers, Thorns to require proof of vaccination at Providence Park

The Portland Timbers and Portland Thorns soccer teams will require proof of vaccination against COVID-19 upon entry to games at Providence Park beginning on Aug. 25, when the Thorns host NJ/NY Gotham FC.

“We felt a responsibility to change the policy with the health and safety of our fans as top priority while doing our part to reduce transmission in our community,” said Timbers and Thorns president of business Mike Golub in a statement Tuesday. “This is not a place any of us thought we’d be, but the spread of the Delta variant and risk to unvaccinated children made it an easy decision until the situation improves. Getting vaccinated against COVID-19 is safe, free, effective and the quickest way to end this pandemic.”

The policy will not apply to this week’s Women’s International Champions Cup matches on Wednesday, Aug. 18, and Saturday, Aug. 21.

Proof of COVID-19 vaccination will be required upon entry, with acceptable forms of proof being a CDC vaccination card, a photocopy of the card or a photo of the card on a mobile device. Cardholders must be at least two weeks past receiving their second dose in a two-dose series (Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna), or a single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

For those who cannot provide proof of vaccination, documentation of a negative PCR test taken within 48 hours of kickoff will also be accepted.

In compliance with Oregon’s statewide indoor face mask requirement that went into effect Aug. 13, guests aged five and over at Providence Park will be required to wear face coverings in all areas other than their seats. Once seated, face masks are optional but recommended.

A number of safety protocols, including cashless transactions (Apple Pay, Google Pay), mobile ordering for food, beverage and merchandise, completely digital ticketing, a clear bag policy and enhanced sanitation protocols remain in place at Providence Park.