The 2020 Indy 500 will finally run without any spectators on August 23 because of an increase of COVID-19 numbers across the state of Indiana.
IndyCar initially hoped to fill up the Indianapolis Motor Speedway to 50 per cent of its capacity, but in light of a ramp-up of COVID-19 cases in Indiana that number was reduced to 20 per cent, or one quarter of the traditional race day crowd numbers of between 250,000 and 300,000 fans.
However, a further escalation of cases in Marion Count and across the state has forced IndyCar and the IMS to close the event entirely to the public for the first time in its 104-year history.
"It is with great regret that we announce the 104th Running of the Indianapolis 500 will take place on Aug. 23 without fans," read a statement released on Tuesday by the IMS.
"This tough decision was made following careful consideration and extensive consultation with state and city leadership.
"As dedicated as we were to running the race this year with 25 percent attendance at our large outdoor facility, even with meaningful and careful precautions implemented by the city and state, the COVID-19 trends in Marion County and Indiana have worsened.
"Since our June 26 announcement, the number of cases in Marion County has tripled while the positivity rate has doubled.
"We said from the beginning of the pandemic we would put the health and safety of our community first, and while hosting spectators at a limited capacity with our robust plan in place was appropriate in late June, it is not the right path forward based on the current environment.
"We encourage Hoosiers to continue making smart decisions and following the advice of our public health officials so we can help get Indiana back on track."
The IMS was acquired in November 2019 from by the Penske Corporation, owned by legendary team owner Roger Penske who also acquired the IndyCar Series.
"Penske Corporation made a long-term investment to be the steward of this legendary facility," continued the release. "While we were very excited to showcase the investments and enhancements we have made in the guest experience, we know we have reached the right decision.
"As much as Roger Penske and everyone associated with the ‘500’ wanted to race with fans this year, we ultimately reached this conclusion in partnership with the state of Indiana and city of Indianapolis.
"Our commitment to the Speedway is unwavering, and we will continue to invest in the Racing Capital of the World. We encourage everyone to watch this year’s race on NBC, and we look forward to welcoming our loyal fans back to ‘The Greatest Spectacle in Racing’ on May 30th of 2021."
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