The 2020 NTT IndyCar Series season-opener will be held at Texas Motor Speedway on June 6 behind closed doors.
The race weekend will be condensed into one day, with a two-hour practice taking place from 1:30-3:30pm Eastern Time, qualifying at 5:00pm, and the race start at 8:45pm.
In a statement issued by IndyCar, series president Jay Frye expressed excitement over the announcement of the season-opener.
“We’re excited and ready to kick off the NTT IndyCar Series season at Texas Motor Speedway. We’ve worked closely with Eddie Gossage, the entire TMS team and public health officials on a plan of action that will ensure the safety of our event participants alongside an exciting return to competition for our drivers, teams and viewers tuning in from around the world.”
There will be strict guidelines that all personnel will have to adhere to over the course of the weekend.
The number of personnel admitted to the venue will be limited, a health screening system will be administered to all at the venue, and PFE equipment will be provided.
Gossage and Texas governor Greg Abbott released a joint statement which reads:
“Racing is part of Texas culture and we are thrilled for the opportunity to bring back this tremendous experience to the people of Texas and to all Americans. Public health remains our top priority and the protocols for this race have been developed with the guidance of public health officials. The American people are eager to watch their favorite live sports again, and this race serves as an example of how we can responsibly hold sporting events while prioritizing the health of the participants and the public.
“While we know that many Texans are ready to attend races in person, this plan provides a solution that enables Americans to enjoy this tradition from the comfort and safety of their homes as our nation responds to COVID-19. We are thankful for the partnership with IndyCar and proud that Texas is at the forefront of opening these cultural and entertainment experiences to all Americans.”
The remainder of the updated, 15-race IndyCar calendar for 2020, announced April 6, remains on schedule for competition.
