Austria MotoGP rounds open to full spectator capacity

For the first time since 2019, MotoGP will be open to full crowd capacity with both Austria races at the Red Bull Ring. 

The Styrian Grand Prix replaces the Finnish Grand Prix that was scheduled for August 6-8, and will run one week ahead of the Austrian Grand Prix in order to form the double-header. 

Dorna Sports have released an official statement, saying: "Dorna Sports is delighted to confirm that both the Michelin Grand Prix of Styria and the Motorrad Grand Prix von Österreich will welcome fans back to the grandstands in 2021. 

"Spectator restrictions are being lifted at sporting events in Austria this summer, and the gates of the Red Bull Ring will therefore be open to MotoGP fans who are either vaccinated, tested or recovered from Covid-19.

"Fans will be able to attend the emblematic Spielberg venue at full capacity for both the Styrian and Austrian GPs.

"The MotoGP paddock will continue to operate as a separate Covid-19 safe bubble at both events."

The news comes after the recent Catalunya Grand Prix saw a reduced number of fans in attendance (20% capacity), while Assen is also expected to have a limited number of spectators. 

Since the Covid-19 global pandemic hit last year, most races had been run behind closed doors until Qatar and Barcelona this year. 

It remains to be seen what/if rounds will have fans and at what capacity following Austria, but nonetheless, it’s a positive sign for all MotoGP fans.