UK plans to lift capacity restrictions on sporting events starting July 19

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has outlined the government's plan to move into the fourth and final step of the country's roadmap out of the COVID-19 pandemic starting July 19.

The move would mark an end to capacity restrictions at sports venues. Johnson said the final decision on whether to enter the next phase will come on July 12, and he stressed the pandemic is "far from over and won't be over by July 19," according to BBC News.

"Large events, such as music concerts and sporting events, can resume without any limits on attendance or social-distancing requirements," the government notes on its website. Settings such as nightclubs will also be fully open, and restrictions on life events like weddings and funerals will be lifted.

There will be no legal requirement to wear a face mask when the final step begins, but Johnson said he'll continue to do so in crowded places "as a courtesy," BBC News' George Bowden reports.

The 2021-22 Premier League season kicks off on Aug. 13 when Brentford host Arsenal. The three EFL divisions below the top flight start the previous weekend.

The Formula 1 British Grand Prix is scheduled for a day before the country plans to ease its restrictions.

The government has already approved full crowds at Wimbledon's two main courts, starting with the quarterfinals. The Grand Slam tennis tournament's quarterfinals begin Tuesday before the event concludes Sunday.