Maple Leafs Sports and Entertainment will require all fans, employees, and event staff to show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test to gain access to its arenas, stadiums, and restaurants, the organization announced Tuesday.

The rules are set to come into effect at some point in mid-September.

"As an organization that hosts more than four million fans per year, at hundreds of events in multiple venues, MLSE is proud to serve as a central gathering place in Toronto and recognizes its responsibility to provide attendees with a safe and secure environment," the statement reads.

MLSE is the parent company that owns the NHL's Toronto Maple Leafs, NBA's Toronto Raptors, CFL's Toronto Argonauts, and MLS' Toronto FC as well as all of their affiliated farm teams. The company also owns Scotiabank Arena and manages BMO Field.

The decision comes amid rising COVID-19 case numbers across the country and the world. Last week, True North Sports and Entertainment, which owns the Winnipeg Jets, announced that all employees and fans will need to provide full proof of vaccination in order to attend its entertainment venues.

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