ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — The Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, one of the biggest events returning to Pinellas County Oct. 23 through Oct. 25, will allow spectators to attend, according to Mayor Rick Kriseman.
During a city council meeting on Thursday, plans that allow the event to operate with 20,000 spectators were approved by Mayor Kriseman.
The approved plans state that "all attendees will be required to wear masks or facial coverings at all times unless when eating or drinking with the 'No Mask, No Entry' plan. Those who don’t have one will be issued a mask at the entry gates."
Along with masks being required and hand sanitizer and handwashing stations being placed around the venue, everyone, including competitors and spectators, "will be subject to a health screening and temperature check before entry is permitted." The paddock and pit lane will also be closed to spectators to promote social distancing.
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“I can't wait for October 23rd. I know everyone will embrace this race the St. Pete Way, adhering to the COVID-19 health and safety protocols. Let's have some great racing in the Sunshine City," said Mayor Kriseman.
Tickets that were previously purchased for the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg and not already deferred will be valid for gate entry. For those interested in attending, a limited amount of tickets will be sold at gpstpete.com.
"It’s exciting to be able to have fans attend the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg. Our entire team greatly appreciates the patience and understanding of our ticket holders as we worked through this process with Mayor Kriseman, City Council and local health officials,” said Kim Green, co-owner, chairman and CEO of GSSP, organizers of the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg. “It’s important for everyone who attends to read and follow all the COVID-19 protocols to contribute to a fun, safe and successful event for us all.”
For more information on the COVID-19 protocols, visit gpstpete.com/covid19faq.
