MotorSport NZ reveal details of ‘Back in Motion’ plan

Motorsport New Zealand have unveiled its ‘Back in Motion’ plan to summarise how motor racing related events can take place under Covid-19 restrictions.

The plan outlines guidelines concerning hygiene requirements, social distancing protocols and the number of people allowed at events.

The document, which can be read in full here, stipulates that up to 100 people (excluding officials and volunteers) are allowed in outdoor spaces, with a maximum of ten people per group in indoor spaces.

However, the plan also suggests that spectators are not advised to visit events under Lever 2 restrictions, to allow organisers to focus on competitors, officials and volunteers.  

Anyone who does enter a venue where a motorsport event is taking place must have their details recording for contact tracing.

MSNZ has developed several resources for event organisers to use such as:

• a contract tracing system that event organisers can use if they do not have their own system in place. 
• a venue plan checklist to ensure event organisers comply with the government guidelines around mass gatherings.

There will also be a limited number of marshals and officials present at events, with social distancing protocols in place. Drivers briefings will likely occur electronically.

A self-scrutiny of vehicle safety has also been implemented into the plan.

Competitors will be mandated to complete a pre-event safety checklist and submit it with their entry alongside photos of the vehicle’s last three logbook entries.

“We are excited to be back in motion,” said Elton Goonan, GM of Motorsport at MotorSport New Zealand.

“We know both our organisers and competitors are eager to get back behind the wheel and have some fun after being locked down for almost two months. These guidelines allow the sport to return, albeit in a limited capacity but as the government starts to lift restrictions, we will follow”

MSNZ will begin issuing permits from Thursday, May 21 for event organisers who submit permit applications that meet the requirements outlined in the ‘Back in Motion’ plan.