No fans at F1 races in Bahrain but health workers invited
A handout picture released by the Bahrain International Circuit on Nov 4, 2020 shows Renault's Spanish driver Fernando Alonso taking part in a testing run on the Grand Prix track. (Photo: AFP/Bahrain International Circuit)
SAKHIR, Bahrain: The two Formula One races in Bahrain will be held predominantly without spectators because of the COVID-19 pandemic, race organisers said Saturday (Nov 7).
A small number of grandstand seats will be allocated for health workers and their families who have helped to fight the pandemic.
“This decision has been made as a result of the current status of the global COVID-19 pandemic, following extensive discussions between the Circuit and the Government of Bahrain,” organisers said in a statement.
“The Kingdom remains focused on protecting the health of citizens and residents, maintaining one of the highest rates of testing per capita of anywhere in the world."
The Bahrain GP will be held Nov 29 on the usual 5.4km Bahrain International Circuit in Sakhir.
But the second race on Dec 6 will be called the Sakhir GP and takes place on the circuit's smaller 3.5km outer track.
