MotoGP, Silverstone working towards a GP behind closed doors (for Formula 1)

Grands Prix held behind closed doors no longer seem to be a possibility but a necessity. The restrictions imposed by governments to overcome the coronavirus emergency are no exception and a race is an event that brings together thousands of people, too many in this period. The only solution is therefore to hold the race without spectators.

The Red Bull Ring had already come to an agreement about this possibility and now the OK has also come from Silverstone. At least for Formula 1.

It does not seem a coincidence that the two tracks are among the few to host both MotoGP and F1, because giving the green light to one championship would mean the certainty that the other can also be held under the same conditions. That is, without the general public and minimizing the number of staff involved in the event.

In a letter addressed to fans, Stuart Pringle, the Silverstone boss, wrote: “I am extremely disappointed to tell you that we are unable to stage this year’s British Grand Prix in front of the fans at Silverstone. We have left this difficult decision for as long as possible, but it is abundantly clear given the current conditions in the country and the government requirements in place now and for the foreseeable future, that a Grand Prix under normal conditions is just not going to be possible. Our obligations to protect the health and safety of everyone involved in preparing and delivering the event, our volunteer marshals and Race Makers, and of course, you, the amazing fans, means that this is the best, safest and only decision we could make.”

He then concluded: “Following this weekend's news from the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport we are now working with them on the viability of an event behind closed doors.”

At the moment, the Formula 1 GP is scheduled for July 19, while the MotoGP race on August 30.