The city of Chicago has eased COVID-19 regulations, and the United Center is following suit.
That being said, the vaccination requirements at the home of the Chicago Bulls and Blackhawks will be stricter than those at most indoor venues in the city.
Starting immediately, fans must show either proof of full vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test to enter. This is a new requirement, as previously only full vaccination proof was accepted.
The face scheme for UC has been updated. Previously mandatory throughout the year, they are now only recommended.
Interestingly, the mask policy was not being enforced and the majority of viewers have already stopped wearing masks. This seems to be the new standard market policy.
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker announced a few weeks ago that the state’s indoor mask mandate would end on Monday, February 28. There was no requirement for vaccinations in the state.
Just Chicago and Cook County were mandated to follow a vaccine requirement, which took effect in 2022. With COVID-19 metrics improving, the city is now easing restrictions. Vaccine requirements will no longer be necessary in most domestic locations in Chicago, but businesses have the option to maintain the policy if they desire.
Illinois casinos have been required to wear masks for most of the pandemic, except for a short period in the summer of 2021. The new rules now apply to them as well.
Madness from March is visiting the United Center
The new regulations will apply not just to Bulls and Blackhawks games, but also to March Madness.
Illinois residents can now place bets on March Madness games online within the state, except when an Illinois team is playing. The Midwest Regional, including the Sweet 16 and Elite Eight, will be held at the United Center on March 25 and March 27.
As a result, Illinois residents will now have the opportunity to sign up for online sports betting. The end of in-person registration on March 5 is expected to boost the IL sports betting industry in the upcoming quarter.
The United Center will soon see wholesale bets as well.
There is currently not a financial casino at the United Center, but that is expected to change in the coming years.
Earlier this year, FanDuel and the UC revealed a new partnership to introduce a sportsbook to the arena. This will mark the second sportsbook of its kind in the city, following closely behind Wrigley Field and DraftKings, which are set to open first.
Beware of the opening of the FanDuel United Center sportsbook in time for the 2025-2024 basketball and hockey seasons.
