An unforeseen spike in Covid-19 cases in the Victorian area has led to Supercars confirming next month’s Truck Assist Winton round will go ahead behind closed doors as a TV-only event.
Supercars CEO Sean Seamer had previously earmarked Winton as the earliest round fans might be able to attend races.
A total of 20 new cases has emerged in Victoria after it seemed Australia had looked to have tamed the virus. Australian health authorities are adamant community transmission is involved and expects more cases to be confirmed over the coming days.
Darwin is now primed to be the first round since the coronavirus-induced season suspension that Supercars will allow fans to attend.
“We’re constantly monitoring all the government advice and working with the government health departments, much like every other sport and business in Australia,” Seamer told Supercars.com.
“We’re hoping that the first event that we’ll be able to have crowds back is Darwin.”
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Martin Pakula issued a statement this morning that confirmed Winton will join Sydney Motorsport Park as a TV-only affair.
The event will now become a billboard for Victorian tourism as the state looks to grapple Covid-19 and fully reopen its borders.
“Victoria is the home of motorsports in Australia and it is fantastic that Supercars will be heading back to Winton in just a few weeks,” said Pakula.
“Tourism is an important part of the High Country and the national broadcast package in place will help to keep it front of mind for travellers as they begin to make holiday plans for the rest of the year.”
A recent $1 million upgrade to Winton was invested back in 2015 by the Victorian government.
The Virgin Australia Supercars Championship returns to racing this weekend for BP Ultimate Sydney SuperSprint from Sydney Motorsport Park.
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