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This page offers all of Delaware Public Media's ongoing coverage of the COVID-19 outbreak and how it is affecting the First State. Check here regularly for the latest new and information.

Dover Int'l Speedway readies to welcome back some NASCAR fans

Delaware Public Media
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Delaware Public Media

A NASCAR race weekend returns at Dover International Speedway with fans for the first time in over a year.

Grandstand capacity for Sunday’s ‘Drydene 400’ NASCAR Cup Series race is capped at 20,000 people, a third of normal capacity, and it is sold out.

But, tickets remain for Friday and Saturday’s races.

The Speedway’s Manager of Communications Michael Lewis reports an overwhelming positive response from fans excited to return after getting the green light from state public health officials.

“To me it shows that people are just enthusiastic to try to get back to as normal as possible during these times," Lewis said. "It’s been a long 14 months for some people waiting to get back out and enjoy these types of activities and most of the responses we’ve received have been positive and they’re ready to go for the drop of the green flag this weekend.”

Fans will also see other pandemic-related changes. The track is going all digital for grandstand tickets and COVID-19 protocols like social distancing and mask wearing will be enforced.

Lewis adds the Fanzone won’t be as big as usual but there will be no shortage of regular concessions and merchendise sales.

"“There will be some partners displaying items in the fanzone, but not as big as it usually is," Lewis said. "We won’t be having any pre-race concerts or anything but there will still be merchandise trailers here, the drivers will have their souvenir trailers here, there will still be some regular concession items.”
 
The classic car show is also still on for Saturday and Sunday.

Dover International Speedway is one of only 10 tracks in the country to host 100 or more Cup Series events. This year’s Drydene 400 is number 103 for the track.

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