Italian Grand Prix could go ahead with spectators

Formula One is considering its first steps to normality by allowing fans to attend the Italian Grand Prix on September 6.

The opening races of the coronavirus-hit schedule are taking place behind closed doors.

But it is understood that the historic Monza circuit – host to the eighth round of this season’s truncated calendar – has been earmarked as the first venue where spectators could be permitted.

The news that spectators may return within two months will provide a boost to the sport as Lewis Hamilton prepares to get his title defence back on track in front of scores of empty grandstands again in Austria.

Tomorrow’s Styrian Grand Prix – the second race in successive weeks at the Red Bull Ring – is among 10 to have now been confirmed sport’s bosses.

The Russian Grand Prix has also been given the green light to take place at the end of the same month. Organisers of the Sochi race have confirmed they will allow spectators.

Hamilton finished only sixth in practice yesterday as he struggled to get to grips with the handling of his Mercedes.

Red Bull’s Max Verstappen set the pace ahead of last week’s winner Valtteri Bottas.

Hamilton, who finished more than half a second back, is hopeful that he will be able to continue to “take a knee” in the fight for equality – a topic that dominated the build-up to the season opener.

Lando Norris, who last week became the youngest British driver to finish on an F1 podium, was eighth for McLaren. the