Le Mans fans can watch 2020 race in 'village' bubbles with social distancing and sanitiser

Le Mans News
Le Mans 2019 scrutineering

James Moy Photography/Getty Images

Details of how spectators will be able to attend the 2020 Le Mans 24 Hours in September have been announced, as organisers look to maintain the event’s unique atmosphere amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

Crowds will be able to mingle in ‘village’ bubbles of up to 5,000 fans, which will be self-contained and unable to mix with other bubbles around the circuit.

Each area will have its own designated colour so spectators can easily identify where they can be. Each will include a view of the circuit, a big screen on which to watch the racing, food and drink amenities, car parking and, in some locations, grandstand seating and camping areas.

Face masks will be compulsory for anyone over the age of 11 and are required to be worn immediately upon entry to the circuit. Hand sanitiser will be made readily available throughout each village and social distancing practices encouraged wherever possible throughout the event.

Scrutineering will take place behind closed doors this year, and competitors will be adhering to unique social distancing measures and safety protocols for the duration of the weekend.

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Ticket sales for the 2020 event have already been suspended, though fans who have already purchased their tickets will be able to attend this year’s race. Some travel companies are still selling packages.

Last month ACO president Pierre Fillon said that the 2020 race would go ahead in a responsible and safe manner while paying tribute to those who have worked on the frontline throughout the pandemic.

“At the 24 Hours of Le Mans this year, solidarity and responsibility will be more than mere words,” he said.

“The principles form the foundation of an event that will celebrate togetherness and fraternity. We will be paying tribute to the heroes of the crisis and saluting the commitment of the members of our club, volunteers, teams, partners, institutions, media and fans – without whom this race could not take place and who have already made it a memorable occasion.

“We have always been at the forefront of technological innovation to improve safety and sustainable mobility. Responsibility is one of our founding principles. We are therefore sure that our loyal spectators will understand our position and support our decision.

“We will not be breaking any attendance records this year. However, all the magic of the race will remain intact and the spectator experience – trackside or from a distance – will remain world-class.”