Coronavirus: Variance in state sports order on spectators means Honda Indy 200 will be run at Mid-Ohio

LEXINGTON, Ohio — The Honda Indy 200 at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington is set for this weekend, Sept. 11-13, after the governor on Tuesday granted a variance in the state sports order to allow up to 6,000 spectators to attend the event.

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Attendance will be limited to 6,000 and social distancing and masks will be required in accordance with state health guidelines, Gov. Mike DeWine announced at his COVID-19 briefing Tuesday. His office said the variance for Mid-Ohio was granted, in part, because it’s a unique, large outdoor facility that can accommodate social distancing.

DeWine previously announced 6,000 spectator variances for the Cleveland Browns and Cincinnati Bengals for two upcoming games each.

The Honda Indy 200 at Mid-Ohio will be a doubleheader weekend for the NTT INDYCAR SERIES with 75-lap races on Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 12 and 13, on the 2.258-mile, 13-turn road course in Lexington, Ohio.

“We’re looking forward to an exciting NTT INDYCAR SERIES doubleheader this weekend at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course. Green Savoree (Racing Promotions) has been an outstanding partner throughout this process, working diligently with the Ohio governor’s office to ensure the right protocols and procedures are in place to host a limited number of spectators,” said Mark Miles, president and CEO, Penske Entertainment Corp.

In accordance with Ohio’s statewide mask mandate in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, everyone is required to wear facial coverings while indoors or outdoors on Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course property. All spectators will enter the facility through Gate 1. They will also be subject to a temperature check and health screening upon entry. The CDC’s recommended guideline of at least six feet of social distancing must be maintained while on property.

“It’s exciting to open our gates to fans again this weekend. The Honda Indy 200 at Mid-Ohio is one of Ohio’s premier annual events,” said Craig Rust, president of Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course. “For those who attend, we ask for everyone’s cooperation and adherence to all the COVID-19 protocols which will be in place to make this a great weekend for us all.”

Cox Media Group