F1 nervousness over biggest fan attendance in Covid era dismissed

Russian Grand Prix

F1 nervousness over biggest fan attendance in Covid era dismissed

30,000 fans will be allowed into the Sochi Autodrom

Ian Parkes & Nicolas Quarles van Ufford

Friday 25 September 2020 08:54

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Daniil Kvyat has dismissed suggestions that holding this weekend's Russian Grand Prix with 30,000 spectators is a risk for Formula 1.

The first eight races of the Covid-hit campaign were all staged behind closed doors, while just under 3,000 fans were allowed to attend for the most recent Tuscan Grand Prix at Mugello.

It is understood there has been a degree of nervousness behind the scenes within F1 and the FIA at allowing what is the highest number of spectators to attend a sports event in the Covid-era, even with the rigorous protocols that will be in place.

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Since September 19, at least 6,000 coronavirus cases per day have been reported in Russia, while the country's death tally is close to 20,000.

Despite this, AlphaTauri driver Kvyat said: "I’m pretty sure everyone who thought about this idea, they thought very well about all the Covid restrictions and the safety for all of us, so I’m sure we’ll be able to enjoy trouble-free racing in that respect.

"We’ve been doing all the races already up until this point. [F1] Mildly started to introduce spectators already from Mugello, if you remember.

"Of course, Formula 1 and the FIA are closely monitoring the situation. All the rules are very tight here, the public rules are also very careful."

Sebastian Vettel, meanwhile, has insisted he has not flouted advice from the German government which has strongly suggested its citizens avoid visiting Russia

Asked as to how he felt about being in Russia despite his government's guidance, Ferrari driver Vettel said: “It’s a tricky one.

"I think we obviously have to trust the organisers here, the FIA and FOM to look after us. Not that much more that I want to say.”

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