New York, Jun 10 (IANS): NASCAR on Wednesday announced plans to welcome back spectators at select venues across the United States. They also put forward protocols that needs to be followed by fans in order to watch the action from close quarters amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

"NASCAR today announced its plan to reintroduce guests at select NASCAR Cup Series races beginning with the Dixie Vodka 400 at Homestead-Miami Speedway and the GEICO 500 at Talladega Superspeedway," a statement on their official website read.

"All guests in attendance will be screened before entering, required to wear face coverings, mandated to social distance at 6 feet, and will not have access to the infield, among other revised operational protocols.

"NASCAR will continue to adapt and improve its procedures to ensure they are effective and can be scaled to support an increased number of fans in the future," the statement added.

Talladega Superspeedway will allow up to 5,000 fans in the front stretch grandstands/towers for the GEICO 500. In addition, there will be limited motorhome/5th-wheel camping spots available outside the track high atop the Alabama Gang Superstretch.

"We have tremendous respect and appreciation for the responsibility that comes with integrating guests back into our events," Daryl Wolfe, Executive Vice President, Chief Operations and Sales Officer, NASCAR said.

"We believe implementing this methodical process is an important step forward for the sport and the future of live sporting events.

"The passion and unwavering support of our industry and fans is the reason we race each weekend and we look forward to slowly and responsibly welcoming them back at select events," he added.