Masks, social distancing, changes for drivers

MANCHESTER, N.H. —

New Hampshire Motor Speedway is preparing to host up to 18,000 people this weekend at the track’s annual NASCAR race, major changes will be made to the event.

Officials at the track have asked people to wear masks on the property, except for taking them off once seated. Seats will be spread out between groups, coolers are not allowed inside, tickets will be electronic and there will be no camping allowed.

“We take this very seriously and we know there will be a lot of eyeballs on us and we want to get it right,” General Manager David McGrath said.

There will be no practice or qualifying laps held for drivers.

On race day, gates to the park will open at 10 a.m. while gates to the track open at 1 p.m. and the green flag is set to fly at 3 p.m.