North Carolina Governor Approves A Fan-Free NASCAR Coca-Cola 600 For Memorial Day Weekend

As an effect of the COVID-19 crisis, most major events have been canceled. From sports to concerts to weddings, gather in large crowds is a no-go right now. But in the hopes of moving towards a “normal” direction, North Carolina’s Governor has signed off on the Coca-Cola 600 on Memorial Day Weekend, fan-free of course.

Governor Roy Cooper stated, “We believe that unless health conditions go down, we believe we can hold the Coca-Cola 600. I think NASCAR will be making that announcement, but that’s what will happen.”

Earlier this week, NASCAR gave teams its latest revised schedule, which shows racing resuming May 17 at Darlington Raceway in South Carolina, followed by a second race at that track on May 20. The 600 would be held on May 24, followed by a second race on May 27.

Although last week Cooper extended North Carolina’s stay-at-home order through May 8, most teams in the Charlotte area are expected to return to work this week as essential businesses.

In terms of safety precautions, NASCAR has yet to publicly release its safety plans but is expected to limit team rosters, have one-day events, and scrap qualifying and practice at many places. As of now, the proposal to eliminate pit stops to reduce the number of team employees at the track is on hold.

NASCAR completed four of its 36 races before the season was suspended because of the coronavirus pandemic. It has vowed to run all 36 Cup Series races and is currently re-arranging and adjusting schedules to make it possible.