After a year filled with self isolations, quarantines and a new lifestyle of working from home, the 2021 Superbowl weekend is finally here where fans can witness the legendary face-off between Kansas City Chiefs, the defending champions of the historic sporting event, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who are playing a once in a lifetime home match. The COVID-19 pandemic, however, has left its impact and substantially suppressed the week-long celebrations which happen in the game day week. 

Unlike traditional Superbowls, this year’s event will run at a restricted capacity at the Raymond James Stadium in Tampa Bay, Florida. The stadium can accommodate over 65,000 spectators but will only be holding 25,000 in addition to 30,000 cut-outs of fans to ensure the stadium continues to hold its charm. Out of the  total audience present at the site, 7,500 will represent the health care workers who have devoted all their time and effort to fight off the pandemic. 

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The Superbowl half-time show, which has been a fan favourite for the spectators viewing the event live or otherwise, will feature the famous American pop star, Weeknd who cryptically hinted that this year no surprise guests will be performing. He also emphasised on the extended health safety protocols being placed at the venue due to which the stage will be built “within the stadium”.

On Sunday, no matter what the outcome of the game is, history is bound to be created. This is not because Patrick Hamhomes will be attempting to secure his second consecutive title or Tom Brady playing for a team other than New England Patriots but because for the first time in the history of the NFL Superbowl, a woman, Sarah Thomas, will be officiating the match. 

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The match will be a sure shot head-turner as the intensity between the teams will be at its peak, with the stakes surging for both. The Chiefs, who have been on a winning streak by acing 24 out of the last 25 appearances, will be seeking to secure a second consecutive win. 

On the other hand, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers will insurmountable and unconditional support from the limited crowd at the stadium as they become the first team to play a match in their home stadium, which will ensure a significant advantage for the team.