A welcome feeling
NH Motor Speedway to allow fans for Aug. 2 race
New Hampshire Motor Speedway announced Thursday that it will welcome fans for its race on Aug. 2, making it the first major sporting event in New England that will allow spectators since the COVID19 pandemic halted sports in March.
The Foxwoods Resort Casino 301, the annual NASCAR Cup Series race at New Hampshire’s “Magic Mile,” was originally scheduled for July 19 but was postponed to Aug. 2 in the racing circuit’s revised schedule.
“Holding New England’s premier NASCAR race this summer here in New Hampshire
has always been a priority,” New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu said in a statement. “The state worked closely with the folks at New Hampshire Motor Speedway and the New Hampshire Division of Public Health to put forward comprehensive, operational guidance. While the stands will not be as full as they usually are, we are proud to be able to hold an in-person viewing experience for NASCAR fans.”
The speedway’s modified protocols will include social distancing in the grandstands and concession lines, enhanced cleaning and sanitization in high-traffic public areas and infield admission for race team and operational personnel only. Other protocols include fans being allowed to bring food and unopened beverages in a small, clear bag. Cash will also not be accepted at the event.
NASCAR has been the first major American sport to let fans back since the pandemic began, starting with welcoming 1,000 South Florida service members to the June 14 race at Homestead-Miami Speedway and opening to 5,000 fans at Talladega last weekend. All fans are required to be screened before entering, wear face masks and perform social distancing, per NASCAR’s guidelines.
It’s unclear how many fans will be allowed at New Hampshire Motor Speedway for the August race.
“I want to extend my deepest thanks to Gov. Sununu, our state and local health officials and NASCAR for their unwavering support through this unprecedented time, as they have all played a significant role in making this happen,” David McGrath, executive vice president and general manager of New Hampshire Motor Speedway, said in a statement. “We’re extremely excited to welcome race fans to ‘The Magic Mile’ to enjoy the Foxwoods Resort Casino 301 and to help us celebrate our 30th anniversary season.”