Beginning with this weekend‘s events at Michigan International Speedway and World Wide Technology Raceway at Gateway, NASCAR will implement several COVID-19 protocol adjustments. These updates to the Event Operations Protocol are being applied on the advice of NASCAR‘s consulting physicians and recently issued medical guidance.
Brief Overview of At-Track Operations and Protocol Adjustments
Casual and planned contact points between essential team personnel/drivers and guests/fans will be greatly reduced.Guests will not be permitted to access team haulers or garage stalls, and grid access for guests has been suspended until further notice (NASCAR-licensed individuals only will be permitted on the grid).Drivers are prohibited from visiting suites, however teams may host guests in controlled, outdoor, distanced meetings with drivers.Driver movement routes will be planned to eliminate casual driver / fan interactions.Driver intros and Victory Lane will be modified to significantly reduce driver exposure (including staggered timings, secure routes, masks in holding area, reduced numbers in VL)
Protocols That Impact Media
Media engagements will be conducted in a controlled and spaced-out manner and media will be required to wear masks when interacting with drivers and team personnel, even when outside.Media members will still be permitted to access the grid with a NASCAR hard card or a NASCAR Essential credential.Media will not be permitted to access team haulers or garage stalls.
In addition to the above updates, the previously announced requirement that masks must be worn in enclosed areas at all times, regardless of vaccination status, is still in effect. Enclosed areas include haulers as well as buildings including the media center, restrooms, the infield care center, race control and suites.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we work to continue racing in a safe manner for our competitors, stakeholders and fans.
