While most sporting event organizers are mulling the possibility of allowing fans to attend games, NASCAR aims to start its Loudon, New Hampshire races with fans.

What does the NASCAR plan?

NASCAR wants to hold the Loudon race at the New Hampshire Motor Speedway with fans in the stands. It announced on Thursday that fans will have to follow some social distancing requirements and follow additional health and safety steps. They will be permitted inside the Foxwoods Resort Casino 301. The race has been rescheduled to August 2 at 3 pm. This would be the largest fan event in New England since the pandemic. However, the organizers will not allow fans on all seats. The 88,000-capacity speedway will only allow up to 35% occupancy in order to follow the new safety and health guidelines.

The Magic Mile will be under strict modified protocols that would include social distancing in the grandstands as well as concession lines. There will be enhanced sanitation and cleaning protocols in all high-touch and high-traffic public areas. There will be additional hand sanitizer stations. Only limited guests will be allowed in suites. There will be infield admission restricted to only the race team and operational personnel.

Other safety guidelines at the speedway

The organizers will allow fans to bring unopened beverages and food to the premises. However, they have to carry them in soft-sided clear bags that should not be larger than 14x14x14 inches. To reduce contact at the security checkpoints, standard coolers will be restricted. The event will also not accept any cash. Payments can only be made via Apple Pay, credit, and debit cards at all souvenir and concession locations.

New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu said,

“Holding New England’s premier NASCAR race this summer here in New Hampshire has always been a priority. 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 race was previously scheduled for July 19 but the organizers postponed the event due to the pandemic.