XFL's Dragons to host Wildcats without fans as Seattle bans large crowds

Following Washington Gov. Jay Inslee's ban of large gatherings in the Seattle metro area, the XFL announced Thursday that the Seattle Dragons will host the Los Angeles Wildcats as scheduled Sunday but without fans at CenturyLink Field.

The state of Washington is attempting to reduce the spread of the coronavirus. The game will still be broadcast live.

The Dragons' next two games are at home. They are scheduled to play against the New York Guardians on March 22 following Sunday's matchup with the Wildcats.

CenturyLink Field announced last week that a part-time stadium employee who worked an XFL game Feb. 22 had tested positive for the coronavirus.

The COVID-19 outbreak has impacted a number of sporting events in Washington. The Seattle Mariners are working to relocate their season-opening series, which is scheduled to take place from March 26-29. A portion of the NCAA men's basketball tournament is scheduled to take place in nearby Spokane next week.