British fans have been warned not to even consider travelling to Silverstone for Formula 1’s doubleheader in August.
Already on Monday, Austrian media reported upwards of 80 percent of hotel rooms had been booked by fans in Spielberg for this weekend despite the Grand Prix at the Red Bull Ring taking place behind closed doors.
And similar situations are likely at other races as fans potentially try and find areas outside the circuit perimeter to still get a view of the action.
Northamptonshire police have made it clear though that any group that tries to visit Silverstone could have a detrimental effect on F1 as a whole.
“The event organisers have put strict and robust measures in place to minimise the risk of infection and to protect the race personnel, event staff and the local community,” a statement released on Monday read.
“Any uncontrolled gathering of people in the area would not only compromise the event but the entire Formula 1 season.”
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Superintendent Dennis Murray, who oversees security for the British GP, also made it clear those who try and watch from outside the circuit will be removed.
“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,” he said.
“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.”
Silverstone circuit boss Stuart Pringle also called on F1 fans to show understanding.
“British Formula 1 fans are the most passionate in the world,” he said. “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.”
