The NTT IndyCar Series has confirmed today that fans will return to the race track for the REV Group Grand Prix at Road America next month. Spectators will be able to attend the doubleheader race weekend after being screened and given face masks and hand sanitizer upon entry.
With the COVID-19 pandemic still gripping the world, when IndyCar announced the eventual start of its 2020 season, they did so with the reluctant knowledge that one or more races would have to be run behind closed doors with limited fan attendance.
The season-opener at Texas Motor Speedway earlier this month was run without fans in attendance, with drivers commenting on the unusual atmosphere. Soon after, it was confirmed that the second race of the 2020 season – the GMR Grand Prix at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway on Saturday, July 4 – would also be run without fans.
Today’s announcement from IndyCar means that Road America will be the first race of the season to be run with spectators. Road America will join Iowa Speedway as venues confirmed to have spectators in attendance. As seen when Iowa announced that fans would be welcome, Road America will introduce a number of measures to ensure the safety of all in attendance. These measures include the encouragement of social distancing as well as the distribution of PPE.
“Under the guidance of public health officials, medical experts and local, state and federal authorities, INDYCAR and Road America will observe safe social distancing practices and provide enhanced hygiene and safety precautions for all fans attending the event,” IndyCar’s statement read today.
“All guests will be screened in their vehicles with contactless temperature checks before entering the parking areas, and only essential racing personnel will have access to the INDYCAR paddock. A PPE kit that includes a face mask, as well as hand sanitizer, will be provided to each guest upon arrival to the track.
“Fans are encouraged to practice safe social distancing and wear a cloth face-covering where social distancing is difficult to maintain. Enhanced cleaning and sanitizing procedures will also be implemented throughout the facility during the weekend. Guests are encouraged to print their tickets at home to have a contactless experience at the gates and easier entry.”
IndyCar’s statement also confirmed today that, with the race being held as a tribute to first responders, any active-duty first responders will be able to attend the race free of charge when they show a valid form of ID at the gate.
As a result of the cancellation of several races due to the pandemic, the Road America race weekend will now play host to two NTT IndyCar Series races. The first will take place on Saturday, July 11 and the second will take place on Sunday, July 12. In addition to the IndyCar action, attending fans will also be treated to races from the Indy Pro 2000 series and the USF2000 series.
The next round of the 2020 NTT IndyCar Series, the GMR Grand Prix at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, will take place on Saturday, July 4.
