Bahrain GP to welcome only vaccinated or Covid-recovered fans

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Bahrain GP organisers will open Sakhir's gates to fans at the end of the month, but only if they are vaccinated for COVID-19 or have recovered from the coronavirus.

The opening round of the 2021 F1 world championship will take place on March 28. But stringent sanitary measures will apply for those allowed into the grandstands, with health screening upon entry and masks that will need to be worn at all times.

The ability to attend the event will be tracked by Bahrain's BeAware app, with vaccinated individuals allowing two weeks to pass after receiving their second dose to become eligible for a ticket while recovered COVID-19 cases must have also allowed two weeks to pass since contracting the virus.

Read also: Formula 1 declines Bahrain COVID-19 group vaccine offer

The sanitary restrictions mean that there will be no 'Paddock Club' hospitality at the Bahrain GP.

"We are delighted to be able to launch our ticket sales today, once again giving fans the opportunity to witness the spectacle of F1," said Bahrain International Circuit CEO Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa.

"In November and December last year, we had the honour to host our healthcare heroes as spectators, and we are pleased this time be open for a broader group of fans, with tickets available to buy for this prestigious first race of the season.

"I am thankful for all the support we receive from across Government in Bahrain and the coordination that makes Bahrain a successful F1 every year.

"I especially thank The National Taskforce for Combating the Coronavirus and Ministry of Health in Bahrain for their planning and guidance, which will allow us to offer a safe experience for fans.

"We would urge eligible fans to reserve their tickets now for the best possible seats to witness the first edition of F1 2021."

Bahrain will host F1's three-day pre-season test next week, with the action starting on March 12.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.