Formula One has confirmed that spectators will be unable to attend the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix after the Italian government banned large crowds.
It had been hoped that up to 13,000 spectators would be able to attend this weekend's event at the Imola track.
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However, due to a rise of coronavirus cases across Italy, the nation's government has decided to ban crowds at events.
Though disappointed that Imola – which has been included on the F1 calendar for the first time since 2006 – will be unable to host fans, F1 respects the Italian government's decision.
"We had hoped to welcome fans to the race this weekend but completely understand and respect the decision taken by the authorities," an F1 spokesperson told Stats Perform News.
"We hope our fans still enjoy the race from home."
This weekend's race will be held over a two-day schedule rather than three. One practice session will take place on Saturday before qualifying, with the race itself set to start at 13:10 local time (12:10 GMT) on Sunday.
Our last visit to Imola was flippin' crazy #ImolaGP #F1 pic.twitter.com/XCJkEvuIP6
— Formula 1 (@F1) October 28, 2020
