The Monaco Grand Prix will open its grandstands to 7,500 spectators a day, regardless of their origin. However, there will be restrictions.
The government made the highly anticipated announcement on Tuesday, revealing that the Formula One Grand Prix would be open to the general public, however grandstand capacity will be limited to 40%.
Mandatory PCR tests for racing fans
People entering Monaco from the Alpes-Maritimes and the Var, including cross border workers, will not need to produce a PCR test until they enter the F1 circuit. Anyone from outside of this department will need to present a negative test upon entering the Principality and the racing circuit.
Grandstands will be open but capacity will be limited to 7,500 spectators per day, with normal seat pricing. On Friday 21st May, only the K and T stands will be open to accommodate a maximum of 3,000 people. Tickets for Friday’s races will be free.
Monaco residents and students will not need to produce a negative PCR test to access the F1 grandstands or circuit throughout the GP weekend.
No decision has been made yet regarding parties on terraces and yachts, or the opening of restaurants and bars, however an announcement on this is expected with the next change in health measures on 16^th May.
Standing zones and the fan zone are not authorised this year.
Monaco E-Prix
In making the announcement on Tuesday, Minister of State Pierre Dartout said his government was happy with the running of the recent Historic Grand Prix and the same conditions will be applied to this weekend’s E-Prix, in particular a capacity limit of 6,500 people in the stands reserved for residents, employees, students and people staying in a hotel in Monaco. Access is also limited for guests on terraces to one person per square metre, and a maximum of 12 people on yachts. The sale and consumption of alcohol in public is banned.
Prepare to be stopped
The government warns that there will be strict controls by authorities and members of the Automobile Club of Monaco checking for PCR tests.
Monaco’s unprecedented move
Monaco’s decision follows an announcement by the organisers of this weekend’s Spanish Grand Prix to allow up to 1,000 circuit members to attend the race on Sunday.
There were no spectators allowed at either of the first two European events of the F1 season, in Portugal last weekend and Imola in Italy two weeks before.
Bahrain allowed 4,500 spectators to attend the season-opening race at the end of March, but it was open only to those who had been vaccinated against or recovered from Covid-19.
 
Photo by Reuben Rohard on Unsplash