Chalk up a win for NASCAR fans everywhere – and a subsequent loss for the Coronavirus – as on Tuesday of this week, North Carolina’s Governor announced he will allow the race to take place. There is one small caveat that, in the scheme of things, race fans probably won’t mind: No spectators will be allowed to attend.
NASCAR has been gracefully scrambling to rearrange the spring schedule after it was abruptly interrupted by the emergence of the Coronavirus. Only four or the 36 races were completed before the pandemic arrived in the US.
Google Local/Charlotte Motor Speedway
This makes the 60th consecutive year for the Coca Cola 600 and for those who make an effort to attend each and every year, missing all of the fun and energy of watching a race in person will surely be a large disappointment.
Flickr/North Carolina National Guard
But the good news is that the race CAN go on. The Governor and state health officials weighed in after reviewing a virus-centric safety plan submitted by NASCAR.
Google Local/Walter Little
The plan has yet to be made public, but it likely included an outline of special safety measures to keep the drivers, their teams, and all the essential crew and Charlotte Motor Speedway employees safe during the race.
Google Local/Frederik Hiergens
It’s a blow for those who were looking forward to attending, however, we’re guessing race fans everywhere would rather the race go on without them, then not go on at all.
Flickr/Chad Davis
Afterall, safety-first has always been the pride of NASCAR… and now it has taken on a new meaning, extending to the health of fans, too.
TripAdvisor/Jeremy31Virgo
NASCAR has yet to announce the Coca Cola 600 as officially returning to the revised schedule (it was originally slated for May 24th and we have no reason to think that date will change), but the official word is expected at any time as NASCAR firms up rescheduled dates for some already missed races. It’s also worth noting that North Carolina officials also reserved the right to rescind the nod if the health of the state’s residents worsens between now and then.
Google Local/Charlotte Motor Speedway
Flickr/North Carolina National Guard
Google Local/Walter Little
Google Local/Frederik Hiergens
Flickr/Chad Davis
TripAdvisor/Jeremy31Virgo
How do you feel about the news? If you’re a die-hard fan and always try to attend this North Carolina race, where do you see yourself on race day this year? Feel free to join the discussion in the comments!
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Address: Charlotte Motor Speedway, 5555 Concord Pkwy S, Concord, NC 28027, USA
