The Effects of Covid on Grassroots Motorsport

The Effects of Covid on Grassroots Motorsport

Just like so many things that have been affected by covid-19, the grassroots motorsport industry has been hit hard, with times remaining to be uncertain and no clear sign of when amateur racers will be able to return behind-the-wheel. Motorsport UK has been working closely with the government for months, trying to help from an initiative called “Getting Back on Track” which aims to outline the safest ways to race during the pandemic.
Despite continued efforts to establish a safe way of enjoying the sport, the current restrictions and back-and-forth nature of the lockdowns and tier systems mean that motorsport is currently on hold for the foreseeable future.

How have fans reacted?

Time and time again these entry-level competitions have been cancelled, pushed back to later dates. Many fans, as well as drivers, are wanting a return to racing according to a recent survey by SportsPro. Despite the lack of events, 53% of the surveyed motorsport fans said that they would definitely attend an event when health officials say that it is safe to do so, and 40% saying that they would attend with a degree of caution. Considering the circumstances, it is good to see that the fans of the sport are still interested and looking forward to being by the track when it is safe to do so.

What is the industry doing to help the coronavirus?

In compliance with the government’s current restrictions, any areas in England and Scotland that are currently in or are about to enter lockdown have had their permits for races withdrawn. Motorsport UK has confirmed that no racing permits will be given until the end of June at the earliest in order to keep everyone safe. However, Motorsport UK remain assured that as soon as government advice allows, motorsport will resume once again.

All areas of motorsport have been affected by covid-19 over the past year, from rally drivers to motocross racers – many have had to either wait patiently for their sports to return or turn to digital replacements, but one thing is for sure – the racing community can’t wait to get back on the track. If you have been keeping up with the latest developments in motorsport and are thinking of studying the subject further take a look at the University of Bolton’s Motorsport courses based in Greater Manchester.