IU announced that tailgating will be prohibited during the 2020 football season in a press release Monday. The decision comes just before the team's first game of the season against Penn State on Oct. 24.
All 14 Big Ten schools agreed to not allow tailgating, according to the release.
“This is a disappointing but necessary step as we ensure that we follow the university, local and state guidelines related to the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Scott Dolson, IU vice president and director of intercollegiate athletics. “Gamedays at Memorial Stadium are special, and we look forward to welcoming all of our Hoosier fans back in the future once it is safe to do so. But at this time, it is important that we follow the guidance of public health officials.”
IU also announced all of the parking lot gates at Memorial Stadium will be closed on game day, except for those designated for select family and staff who are allowed to attend the game.
In an effort to keep the fans involved, IU said in the release later this week it will announce a series of opportunities for fans to win prizes via social media. In addition, they are encouraging fans to share their home tailgates on social media and IU will share some of these posts during game days on its official social media.
IU opens the season Saturday against Penn State at 3:30 p.m. on FS1.
