There’s no doubt in anyone’s mind that the outbreak of Covid – 19 has massively disrupted all of our lives. We can no longer be within two metres of anyone outside of our household – even family, we have to queue to get into the supermarket, and the vast majority of our recreational activities – from going out for a meal, to nipping to the pub with friends – have been put on hold ever since the lock down was announced.

Another industry that has been massively impacted by the coronavirus, is the sporting industry. There isn’t one that has gone unscathed, but for NASCAR fans, many are still left asking the question. What will happen next?

Read on to find out more information on how NASCAR is responding to the Covid 19 outbreak, and its subsequent restrictions.

What is the Coronavirus?
The coronavirus – also commonly referred to as Covid – 19, is a respiratory infection which can be passed from human to human via the eyes, the nose, and the mouth. This strand of viruses spread in a very similar manner to the common cold, but come with a much higher level of severity in the respiratory system.

Due to the spread of the coronavirus around the world, all social interaction has been put to a stop. The symptoms include a high temperature and a dry, constant cough – and if someone is believed to have these, then the advice is for them and other members of their household to self – isolate from seven to fourteen days.

It’s the largest global pandemic of our generation, and is therefore being treated with appropriate caution.

Races Have Been Postponed
As with so many other major sporting leagues and events, for the time being, NASCAR have reportedly postponed all of their races as a response to the Covid – 19 outbreak and the subsequent social distancing rules.

Officials of NASCAR released the following statement not long after the lock down was announced:

“The health and safety of our fans, industry and the communities in which we race is our most important priority, so in accordance with recent CDC guidance, NASCAR is currently postponing all race events through May 3rd, with plans to return racing in Martinsville. We appreciate the patience of our fans and we look forward to returning to the race track. We intend to hold all 36 races this season, with future rescheduling soon to be determined as we continue to monitor this situation closely with public health officials and medical experts. What is important now transcends the world of sports and our focus is on everyone’s safety and well-being as we navigate this challenging time together.”

Although this was a disappointment for many avid racing fans who had tickets and were excited to attend live racing events, it was understood by many that this is just the way it has to be right now.

How NASCAR Are Helping to Save Lives
Despite not being able to partake in their sport as they usually would, NASCAR have not shied away from the opportunity to help others in this difficult time.

Instead of sitting back and enjoying the time off, NASCAR engineers have temporarily turned their research and development facilities into a centre in which they are aiding in the making and shipping of personal protective equipment – or PPE – to medical professionals all around the country.

They have been able to produce face shields with their 3D printing facilities, which are utilised to be shaped like the human head. They have then been being sent to medical researchers and professionals etc to ensure that they are protected against the risk of catching coronavirus when working. Pretty amazing, right?

What Happens Next?
Following the cancellations of live racing due to the coronavirus outbreak, it has been reported – quite literally in recent days – that NASCAR has actually paired up with iRacing in order to host a series of virtual simulated races, which will include virtual versions of your favourite NASCAR racers. The event will be live streamed on Twitch, and has reportedly been well received by fans and officials so far. After all, we all understand that the real thing can’t take place for health and safety reasons right now – but this is undoubtedly the next best thing, right?

So you might not be able to experience the live thrill of the stadium, but you will be able to put your feet up at home and enjoy a simulated version of it.

We hope you are all keeping safe and healthy, and that “real life” NASCAR racing will resume as soon as it is safe to do so.