Bahrain Grand Prix officials have announced new measures to ensure a “safe and exciting” race weekend amid the threat from Coronavirus.
The Middle East nation has reported 49 cases of the illness, the majority of which came from people travelling from Iran, which has seen the biggest outbreak in the region.
Already, restrictions have had an impact on motorsport activities in Bahrain with Christian Lundgaard placed in quarantine upon arrival for the Formula 2 test held there last week.
And now organisers have announced restrictions on ticket sales to avoid the gathering of too many fans in one area.
“The Bahrain International Circuit is committed to holding a safe and exciting Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix for local and international fans, and is working closely with all relevant Government departments, including the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Interior, to mitigate the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19),” a statement said.
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“In light of the continued global outbreak of COVID-19, the BIC has announced that it will be phasing the sales of Grand Prix tickets to ensure appropriate social distancing guidelines are met.
“As further facts emerge, the BIC is in close communication with both Formula One Management and the Kingdom’s health authorities to assess the developing situation and release further tickets or refund the face value of tickets depending on circumstances and updated medical advice.
“This precautionary step has been introduced along with a number of public health measures ahead of the Grand Prix to ensure the safety of all spectators, teams and circuit staff.
“These include screening procedures on entry, specialist medical facilities on-site, enhanced sanitation at the circuit, additional handwashing stations, information points for fans, as well as specific medical protocols to manage any suspected cases of COVID-19.”
All those visiting Bahrain in a working capacity for the Grand Prix have been ordered to hand over travel schedules for the two-week period upto the race on March 22 in an effort to ensure all teams can send personnel who will be granted entry into the country.
As with all the early races, however, it seems every outcome, including cancellation, can’t be ruled out at this point should the situation change.