Bahrain F1 COVID-19 Policy Sure to Rile Fans, Get the Attention of Promoters Worldwide
In an announcement surely to get the attention of sports promoters worldwide and rile up a more than a few fans at the same time, Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix organizers say only previously-infected or fully vaccinated people will be allowed to attend this month's F1 season opener.
Healthy fans who have not had COVID-19 or who have yet to receive two vaccine shots need not bother getting tickets for the upcoming Grand Prix in Bahrain—sorry, you're not getting in.
You better have the official BeAware Bahrain app, and your shots had better be up to date.
The race is scheduled for March 28.
"Entry will only be granted to ticket holders on presentation of one of these badges (either have had the disease or have completed the vaccination process)," organizers say. "Failure to do so will result in entry being denied."
The official Bahrain GP website posted FAQs for fans planning on attending the race. And don't even think of going to the race if you only have one shot of the vaccine.
Only two grandstands—the main grandstand and grandstand into Turn 1—will be open for fans.
FAQs from the circuit's website:
I have only received a single dose vaccine. Can I still attend the race?
No, you must have a green shield on your BeAware Bahrain app to be able to attend the race. As per the Ministry of Heath procedures, this will appear two weeks after your second dose.
I recovered from COVID-19 a month ago. Can I still attend the race?
Yes, you are eligible to attend the event. As per the Ministry of Health’s procedures, your green badge will be displayed two weeks after your date of infection and will last for a period of 8 months from your positive PCR result.
I am due to receive my green badge (fully vaccinated 2 weeks after second dose) the week before the race. Can I buy my ticket now?
As long as your BeAware app displays the green badge showing that you are registered as vaccinated or recovered on the day you are due to attend the F1, you will be granted access.
I am vaccinated. Can I attend the race with my children?
In order to maintain the health safety of all, children are only able to attend if they have recovered from Covid-19 and have a green shield on the BeAware App. If not, they are not eligible, even if the rest of their family is vaccinated or COVID-19 recovered.
Race officials also say that health screening on entry, social distancing, and compulsory mask wearing at all times will be part of the race weekend.
In addition, the circuit officials promise that "area entertainment, food, beverage and fan experiences have been carefully selected to allow for health protection measures and enhanced sanitation."
But can I still get extra mustard on that hot dog?
Fans who do attend the race can be sure that they won't be alone this year. Big brother will also be watching in Bahrain. Would restrictions like the ones in place for the F1 Bahrain make it more likely, or less likely, that you'd attend your favorite sporting event? Start the discussion in comments below.
