Bristol Maxes Out Seating Capacity Ahead of September 19th NASCAR Playoff Race

This weekend, the NASCAR paddock heads to the Richmond Raceway. However, the hype is already building for the next race on the calendar at the Bristol Motor Speedway. This is because the track authorities have sold out its ticket capacity for the Sept. 19 Cup playoff race.

As it turns out, Bristol is expecting a socially-distanced capacity of 30,000 spectators for that weekend’s race. This is an important race because the results decide which four drivers get eliminated in the first round of the playoffs.

“We are grateful to those guests who are placing their confidence in us during these unprecedented times,” said BMS’ vice president, Jerry Caldwell. “We want to thank our community and state leaders, our colleagues at NASCAR and Speedway Motorsports owners, Bruton and Marcus Smith. For trusting us to put on these historic events with Playoff implications at Bristol Motor Speedway. We take this responsibility seriously and will work hard to ensure our team and vendors execute this event in the safest manner possible.”

How is Bristol preparing for the NASCAR race?

Before the paddock can make landfall at the track, the venue organizers will have to thoroughly clean the facility. With the COVID-19 virus running rampant, they cannot afford to take chances with fans, drivers, and team personnel’s health.

So the authorities will be doing everything in their power to reduce physical contact and crowding. Other preventive measures include, fans getting their temperature screened and mandatorily wearing masks in common areas.

Luckily for them, the masks can come off when the spectators are at their seats. So far, the United States continues to lead the global infection lists. It is also worth noting that the Sept. 17 Truck playoff race and ARCA race will run behind closed doors.

All said and done though, the fraternity will be busy focusing on this weekend’s race at Richmond, Virginia. Kevin Harvick has bagged pole and will be aiming to strengthen his hopes of winning the 2020 Cup Series.