Fans urged to steer clear of Silverstone during F1 double-header

British Grand Prix

Fans urged to steer clear of Silverstone during F1 double-header

Fans will not be permitted access to the race, categorised as a 'closed event'

Sam Hall

Tuesday 30 June 2020 11:09

Northamptonshire Police have instructed fans to stay away from Silverstone during the Formula 1 double-header at the start of August.

The UK government has gradually eased lockdown measures, allowing larger groups of people to meet.

But this freedom has seen concerns grow with regard to the potential for fans to gather en masse outside sporting venues.

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“We completely understand fans may be tempted to be close to the circuit for the races but unfortunately that will not be possible this year and access to the local area will be extremely restricted," said event commander, Superintendent Dennis Murray.

“I am urging fans to enjoy these events from home as it will not be permissible, or in fact possible, to spectate from the perimeter fences. Anybody attempting to do so will be turned away by Silverstone security who will be tightly controlling these areas, or my officers.

“Though the races are being held behind closed doors, the security measures we are putting in place will be as stringent as ever. We are working alongside the circuit to deliver two safe events for both the participants, their teams and our local communities.”

The British Grand Prix is regularly competed in front of sell-out crowds, the recent success of Lewis Hamilton bolstering national interest in the event.

Formula 1 will race at the Northamptonshire venue twice in as many weeks at the start of August, the second event labelled the 'Formula 1 70th Anniversary Grand Prix'.

Stuart Pringle, Managing Director of Silverstone, commented: Silverstone managing director, Stuart Pringle, added: "The British Formula 1 fans are the most passionate in the world, but we ask that they do not attempt to travel to the Silverstone area over these first two weekends in August.

"2020 is unique and so many sacrifices have already been made by so many, however, as a motorsport community, we must work together to avoid compromising the Formula 1 season and to help Silverstone protect its neighbours."

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