via Getty
AVONDALE, ARIZONA – NOVEMBER 10: Kyle Busch, driver of the #18 M&M’s Toyota, and Joey Logano, driver of the #22 Shell Pennzoil Ford, lead the field to turn one after taking the green flag to start the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series Bluegreen Vacations 500 at ISM Raceway in Avondale, Arizona. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)
via Getty
AVONDALE, ARIZONA – NOVEMBER 10: Kyle Busch, driver of the #18 M&M’s Toyota, and Joey Logano, driver of the #22 Shell Pennzoil Ford, lead the field to turn one after taking the green flag to start the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series Bluegreen Vacations 500 at ISM Raceway in Avondale, Arizona. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)
In the 2021 NASCAR Cup Series season, there will be plenty of adjustments. Obviously, the COVID-19 pandemic is not about to go away anytime soon. In light of that, the Phoenix Raceway became one of the first to take some precautions.
To be precise, the track authorities are limiting the number of spectators for its March 12-14 race weekend. Admittedly, this could be a packed weekend, as the NASCAR Cup, Xfinity, and ARCA Menards races will kick off there.
“We look forward to kicking off another 2021 NASCAR season at Phoenix Raceway this March and while we wish we could host a capacity crowd, the health and safety of everyone remains our top priority,” said track president Julie Giese.
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This is in a similar vein to how they conducted the 2020 championship showdown in November. Without a doubt, that experiment was a roaring success. Owing to that, the Phoenix authorities are confident that they can execute another event in a safe manner.
Phoenix Raceway announces for its March 12-14 race weekend limited fans each day similar to November policies (20%, 8,400 in grandstands plus tables in infield fanzone area — no infield experience as far as being able to walk by the garages). Hillside available Sunday. #nascar
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) January 4, 2021
How will Phoenix tackle the situation in the 2021 NASCAR season?
Obviously, the reduced capacity will witness several fans getting their grandstand seats relocated. The idea to ensure that everyone observes social distancing. It is also worth mentioning that the venue is prioritizing season ticket holders in terms of seating.
USA Today via Reuters
Avondale, Arizona, USA; NASCAR driver Chase Elliott (9) during the NASCAR Cup Series Championship at Phoenix Raceway. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
For obvious reasons, all spectators have to undergo mandatory screening upon entry. In addition to that, they also have to wear face masks. Furthermore, several handwashing and hand-sanitizing stations will be placed at various locations at the venue. Finally, a team of staff members will aid in cleaning and disinfecting.
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Of course, Phoenix is not the only track to follow this procedure. As per reports, the Daytona International Speedway and the Homestead-Miami Speedway will allow a limited number of fans.
Daytona (first two races) limited fans, Homestead (third race) limited fans, Vegas (TBA), Phoenix (fifth race) limited fans … Daytona/Homestead 25-30% capacity with social distancing between groups, Phoenix 20%. https://t.co/nnlPmSeOHX
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) January 4, 2021
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However, it is worth mentioning that this only applies for the first two Daytona races. In the meantime, the Las Vegas Speedway has yet to come up with a decision on this.
