This year’s British Grand Prix will be held at full capacity on July 18, after the Silverstone-based event was included in the UK government’s Event Research Program (ERP).
Event planners had sought clarification from the government after the delay in the final easing of restrictions on coronaviruses. Silverstone said “full capacity” means the same participation levels as in 2019, so up to 140,000 fans will be in attendance on race day. Last year’s event went without fans.
The ERP has organized a number of scientific studies during a series of test events to assess the impact of mass gatherings on Covid-19 and ways to mitigate the spread of the virus. The FA Cup final and various Euro 2020 matches have been organized with the cooperation of the ERP, as well as events such as Royal Ascot and the Download music festival.
Silverstone is currently working with ERP members and the director of public health at Northampton on specific entry requirements for the event, which the report says will be communicated to ticket holders shortly. He confirmed that ticket holders will be required to provide proof of a negative lateral flow test performed within 48 hours of the visit or proof of full vaccination.
Silverstone boss Stuart Pringle said: “This is something we’ve all been working on for months and I look forward to welcoming a full capacity crowd to Silverstone in July. Many of our fans have rolled over their tickets from 2020, but they are now in a good position to enjoy what is sure to be one of the highlights of the summer. “
Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said: “I am delighted that Silverstone can once again welcome fans to their large outdoor venue for the ultimate in British motorsport. With our successful vaccine deployment and ambitious event research program, we continue to make progress and events like this will pave the way for everyone to enjoy live sport and culture again in completely safe. “
Opening the event to 140,000 fans is expected to make the British GP the biggest mass event held in the UK since the start of the pandemic. It will be close to the number of attendees at this year’s Indianapolis 500, which is the largest event to date in the United States, where restrictions on coronaviruses have been relaxed more significantly.
The Euro 2020 semi-finals and final will take place at Wembley Stadium in front of 60,000 fans. The size of the Silverstone circuit was the key to getting permission for such a large rally.
This year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed will also run at full capacity after entering the ERP.
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Source: www.autocar.co.uk
This notice was published: 2021-06-24 12:00:07
