Face masks no longer mandatory in Spanish schoolyards from Thursday

The Spanish Council of Ministers confirmed on Tuesday the decision of the Interterritorial Health Council (CISNS) to lift the mandatory use of face masks in outdoor spaces as a measure to combat the spread of the Covid-19 virus.

As a result, the mask will no longer be compulsory one day after the publication of the decision in the Spanish Official State Gazette (BOE). As the publication will take place on Wednesday, the decision will take effect on Thursday 10 February.

The mask will also no longer be required of children and adolescents in the courtyards of Spanish schools from Thursday.

"Spanish children have given a great example of responsibility throughout this time and without a doubt this will be great news for them as well as for their teachers and also for their parents," said the Government spokesperson at the conference after the Council of Ministers and Minister of Territorial Policy, Isabel Rodríguez.

The use of face masks will continue to be mandatory inside schools and also in organized events that are outdoors, such as a concert, and in which the safety distance cannot be guaranteed.

Sports venues capacity

The Government has also given the green light to increase the capacity for sports competitions, which will benefit specially the matches of the football and basketball leagues.

In accordance with the agreed decision, the maximum capacity in open venues such as soccer stadiums is increased from the current 75% to 85%.

For events held in indoor venues, the maximum capacity expands from 50% to 75%.