Milan—A limited number of spectators could be allowed to attend the Monaco Grand Prix on May 23, Formula One chief executive officer Stefano Domenicali revealed on Sunday.
However, no fans will be allowed at the races in Portugal next weekend and Spain on May 9.
“We are monitoring the situation on a daily basis, which is changing hour by hour,” Domenicali told Sky TG24.
“In the next Grands Prix of Portugal and Spain, unfortunately, we will not have anyone, but Monaco is presented as the first where a limited number of people should be admitted on Sunday.
“It gives us hope for the future, because if the situation improves there will be a gradual reopening and fans will have the opportunity to participate.”
The Italian added: “There is an incredible physical desire for Formula One, not just on television.”
During the season-opening Bahrain GP in March, a few spectators who were vaccinated or cured of Covid-19 were able to witness Lewis Hamilton’s win.
Monaco announced 10 days ago an easing of health restrictions in the Principality, but without a decision on the Grand Prix, the fifth round of this season’s calendar.
Meanwhile, the Japanese Grand Prix will remain at the Suzuka circuit for three more years until 2024, the race promoters and F1 chiefs announced Saturday.
“This contract extension, the result of the fruitful relationship between Formula 1 and Mobilityland (the circuit owners), is part of the long-term strategic commitment to develop the sport in Asia,” said a Formula 1 statement.
“Japan has an avid fan-base and with exciting young talent Yuki Tsunoda who became the first Japanese driver on the grid since 2014, Formula 1 will continue to work with the promoter to further increase the sport’s popularity there.”
The figure-of-eight Suzuka circuit, which will celebrate its 60th anniversary in 2022, has hosted 31 GPs since 1987, with the drivers’ world title being decided there on 11 occasions.