Ontario to announce preseason arena capacity for Maple Leafs

The Ontario government will announce arena capacities for preseason games at not quite the last minute, per a report from Chris Johnston of the Toronto Star.

He reports that the Leafs will be allowed 50% capacity, or approximately 9.500 fans. This policy will hold for the Senators and Raptors for preseason. There is an expectation that this will be increased. This information was first reported by TSN:

I understand the Ontario gov't will announce shortly the Leafs, Raptors and Senators will be allowed 50% arena capacity for pre-season games. Will likely move up from there if things go well.
Leafs home vs Montreal Sept 25
Sens vs Leafs Sept 29
Raptors host Sixers Oct 4

— Rick Westhead (@rwesthead) September 23, 2021

The Maple Leafs chose to sell tickets for Saturday’s game at full capacity, with this plan:

‼️ NOTE: In the event that capacity allowances are impacted by public health and government regulations prior to the game, MLSE may cancel your ticket and issue a refund within 30 days of purchase via original method of payment. Ticket holders will be notified ASAP of any impacts

— Toronto Maple Leafs (@MapleLeafs) September 17, 2021

If you bought a ticket, expect to be contacted if your seat isn’t the lucky winner.

Update:

In a memo the NHL sent out to teams today regarding fan vaccine and mask requirements, it says every building--except the Bell Centre (MTL, 33%) and Rogers Arena (VAN, 50%)--will be able to begin operating at 100% capacity. 1/2 @Sportsnet

— Eric Engels (@EricEngels) September 23, 2021

Now official:

At a news conference Friday afternoon, provincial Medical Officer of Health Dr. Kieran Moore announced an increase to capacity limits in several settings requiring proof of vaccination, starting Saturday.

Effective at 12:01 a.m., sporting events, meeting and event spaces, concerts, theatres, cinemas will be able to operate at 50 per cent capacity or up to 10,000 people.

At outdoor event venues where patrons stand, capacity limits will increase to up to 75 per cent capacity or 15,000 people (whichever is less). Where patrons are seated, that limit will be 75 per cent capacity or 30,000 people.