Northamptonshire Police have urged fans not to congregate at Silverstone when Formula 1 visits next month, suggesting any gathering could compromise the season.
All confirmed Formula 1 grands prix so far are set to be run as Closed Events, with a vast reduction in admitted personnel, social distancing and hygiene protocols enforced, and no spectators permitted.
Silverstone is to host the British Grand Prix from July 31 to August 2 and then the 70th Anniversary Grand Prix from August 7 to 9.
In a bulleting issued Northamptonshire Police outlined that “strict and robust measures” have been planned to “protect race personnel and the local community.”
It warned that “any uncontrolled gatherings of people in the area would not only compromise the event but the entire Formula 1 season.”
All major sporting events that have been held in the United Kingdom since March, most prominently the Premier League, Championship and Royal Ascot, have been held without spectators.
Superintendent Dennis Murray, the Event Commander, said: “We completely understand fans may be tempted to be close to the circuit for the races but unfortunately that will not be possible this year and access to the local area will be extremely restricted.
“I am urging fans to enjoy these events from home as it will not be permissible, or in fact possible, to spectate from the perimeter fences.
“Anybody attempting to do so will be turned away by Silverstone security who will be tightly controlling these areas, or my officers.
“Though the races are being held behind closed doors, the security measures we are putting in place will be as stringent as ever.
“We are working alongside the circuit to deliver two safe events for both the participants, their teams and our local communities.”
Stuart Pringle, Managing Director of Silverstone, added: “The British Formula 1 fans are the most passionate in the world but we ask that they do not attempt to travel to the Silverstone area over these first two weekends in August.
“2020 is unique and so many sacrifices have already been made by so many, however, as a motorsport community, we must work together to avoid compromising the Formula 1 season and to help Silverstone protect its neighbours.”
