The police have warned Formula 1 fans not to gather around Silverstone while the circuit hosts two behind closed doors grands prix in August.
The 2020 Formula 1 season is set to begin with a double-header in Austria this weekend, with further races in Hungary, Britain, Spain, Belgium and Italy already confirmed.
All these events are set to be held without fans and police in Britain have now warned fans against travelling to Silverstone in order to catch a glimpse of the cars on track, stating that their presence could jeopardise the entire event.
“The event organisers have put strict and robust measures in place to minimise the risk of infection and to protect the race personnel, event staff and the local community,” a statement from Northamptonshire Police read.
“Any uncontrolled gathering of people in the area would not only compromise the event but the entire Formula 1 season.”
The calls were echoed by British Grand Prix boss Stuart Pringle, who asked the motorsport community to work together during a difficult period.
“The British Formula 1 fans are the most passionate in the world but we ask that they do not attempt to travel to the Silverstone area over these first two weekends in August,” he said.
“2020 is unique and so many sacrifices have already been made by so many. However, as a motorsport community, we must work together to avoid compromising the Formula 1 season and to help Silverstone protect its neighbours.”
The circuit’s event supervisor Dennis Murray added that extra security measures would be put in place in order to stop fans accessing the circuit.
“We completely understand fans may be tempted to be close to the circuit for the races but unfortunately that will not be possible this year and access to the local area will be extremely restricted,” he said.
“I am urging fans to enjoy these events from home as it will not be permissible, or in fact possible, to spectate from the perimeter fences. Anybody attempting to do so will be turned away by Silverstone security who will be tightly controlling these areas, or my officers.
“Though the races are being held behind closed doors, the security measures we are putting in place will be as stringent as ever. We are working alongside the circuit to deliver two safe events for both the participants, their teams and our local communities.”