With the COVID-19 pandemic putting an end to public gatherings around the country, NASCAR becomes the first major sport to resume events starting May 17. NASCAR announced on Thursday that it will hold seven races over 11 days at the Darlington and Charlotte tracks.
“NASCAR and its teams are eager and excited to return to racing and have great respect for the responsibility that comes with a return to competition. NASCAR will return in an environment that will ensure the safety of our competitors, officials, and all those in the local community,”
Steve O’Donnell, NASCAR executive vice president and chief racing development officer.
In accordance with CDC, OSHA and state and local government recommendations, nearly every aspect of how the event is conducted will be significantly modified, including:
- One-day shows;
- Mandated use of personal protective equipment throughout the event;
- Health screenings for all individuals prior to entering the facility, while inside the facility and exiting the facility;
- Social distancing protocols throughout the event;
- Strict limits on the number of individuals who are granted access into each facility
NASCAR says it also hopes to race in Atlanta and Martinsville in Georgia, as well as Bristol, Tennessee, in the coming weeks as long as officials approve.