FAN RETURN TO ENGLISH CIRCUITS DECLARED A SUCCESS
Spectators watch on for first time in 2021 and operators look forward to further restriction easing
UK motorsport operators have branded the recent return of spectators to national racing and rallying events a success and now look ahead to remaining Covid restrictions being eased.
Thousands of fans flocked to the opening round of the British Rally Championship, which took place at Oulton Park on Monday. Race events opened their gates 10 days ago when fans were welcomed back for the first time in 2021, with the line-up led by Brands Hatch’s British GT championship season-opener.
The remaining Covid restrictions on English attendances are due to be lifted on June 21.
Circuit operator MotorSport Vision told Motorsport News: “It’s been brilliant having fans trackside again – there was a superb atmosphere and we hope to welcome many more people as the summer progresses.”
National motorsport operators have said the recent return of spectators to racing events was a success and are keen for access restrictions to be eased further.
English circuits on the May 22-23 weekend welcomed spectators back for the first time since late 2020 after the latest easing of Covid restrictions. Unrestricted crowds are due to return from June 21.
Circuit operator MotorSport Vision, whose weekend line-up was headlined by British GT’s Brands Hatch seasonopener, told Motorsport News: “We’re still working to very strict spectator limits but it’s been brilliant having fans trackside again – there was a superb atmosphere at Brands Hatch and we hope to welcome many more people as the summer progresses.”
Giles Groombridge, competitions manager of the 750 Motor Club that welcomed fans back at its Donington Park meeting, told MN: “We didn’t have any issues at all. At least competitors can invite people to come along and support them.
“It’s a nice welcome for the drivers to actually see some people on the banks for the first time in a while.
It all feels positive at the moment.
“Part of the appeal with spectators in club racing is the [pit and paddock] access. It’s a shame that we can’t welcome them into the paddock yet. Hopefully in a month’s time those restrictions will be lifted.” Spectator tickets for last weekend’s 750MC Croft meeting sold out in advance.
MSV however expressed frustration that motorsport events had to wait longer than some other attractions to readmit customers and still face tougher restrictions than stadiumbased activities.