F1’s British GP to remain open to fans despite new lockdown extension

Lockdown restrictions have been extended until July 19 by Prime Minister Boris Johnson amid concerns over COVID-19 rates rising again.

The British GP is set to take place between July 16-18, just before restrictions are expected to be completely lifted.

Restrictions were initially going to be eased on June 21 and thus would have allowed Silverstone to host a full 140,000 capacity crowd.

Currently, it is unclear how many fans will be allowed into Silverstone with organisers set to have further talks with the UK government later this week.

The Times is reporting that Wimbledon will have a full capacity crowd for its men and women’s tennis finals next month, while 45,000 fans will be allowed into Wembley for the conclusion of the Euro 2020 football tournament.

Organisers remain hopeful that a good proportion of fans will be allowed to attend the British GP as it could form part of the government’s Event Research Programme, with it assessing the effects of lifting restrictions at major events.

The scheme began in April and has included a number of pilot events such as the FA Cup final at Wembley in May.

Given that Silverstone is not reliant on public transport and the 70,000 grandstand seats are scattered around the 3.5-mile circuit, organisers have a legitimate argument when they put their case forward for allowing spectators.

A statement from Silverstone said: “Following today’s announcement confirming that the easing of lockdown restrictions will be delayed by four weeks, we’d like to reassure you that we remain confident fans will be back at Silverstone for the 2021 Formula 1 British Grand Prix in July.

“Our ongoing discussions with the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, as well as Public Health England, are positive. We will communicate the full details with you once we have them.”