The Stormont Executive says it is continuing to work closely with various sporting bodies to look into the safe return of supporters.
Fans were due to be allowed into English sporting venues from October 1 but those plans have now been halted following a rise in coronavirus cases.
It has prompted fears that Northern Ireland could follow a similar trajectory, placing even more pressure on cash-strapped clubs as they continue to count the cost of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Irish League season is scheduled to kick-off next month, alongside Ulster Rugby's new Pro14 season.
Both the Irish FA and Ulster Rugby have been engaged in talks with the NI Department of the Communities to examine the potential return of some fans to events.
A Department of Communities spokesperson said: "The Department is working with sporting bodies including Ulster Rugby and the IFA to look at the return of spectators and how that could be managed safely, which includes the possibility of test events.
"The working group includes representatives from Sport NI, the Sports Ground Safety Authority, local councils and the governing bodies.
"This work has just commenced and while it will continue it is recognised that any progress on a return of larger numbers of spectators to sports grounds will have to be aligned with the Executives plans to address the surge in Covid cases, the evolving Covid restrictions and guidelines."
Ulster Rugby has already already submitted a proposal to the Department for Communities detailing "full operational plans for a potential test event" which would allow for fans to make a "safe and measured return" to the Kingspan Stadium.
However, in an open letter to clubs and fans CEO Jonny Petrie said a patient approach will be required before spectators are allowed back to watch rugby live.
