Snetterton Circuit preparing to reopen its doors in 70th anniversary year

On what is its 70th anniversary year, Snetterton Circuit is set to reopen its gates next month.

Like all sporting venues, the last year has been severely disruptive for the Norfolk-based track.

A number of events in 2020 were cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic, although some races were salvaged later in the year.

However, after the government laid out its plans for the easing of lockdown over the coming weeks and months, there is now some light at the end of the tunnel for motorsport fans.

MSV, who have the likes of Snetterton, Brands Hatch and Donington Park under their stewardship, said in a statement: “Spectators will be welcome at MSV race events from Saturday, April 17, in compliance with Covid-secure guidance issued by government. This does not apply to elite motorsport, which must run behind closed doors until May 17.

“Access to all working areas (eg paddocks, pit lanes and garages) will be limited to competitors, volunteer officials, marshals and those providing a service at the event.

“Ticket sales will be limited and must be purchased in advance for the time being. There is no requirement for season pass holders to notify us of their attendance beforehand.

“A range of physical distancing measures will be in place across the site, including grandstands, and the ‘Rule of Six’ will be enforced.

“From no earlier than May 17, spectators will be permitted to attend elite, national-level events such as British Touring Cars and Bennetts British Superbikes.”

It added: “At this stage, it is not clear what capacity limit will apply to MSV circuits, and we are urgently clarifying this with the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS).

“Our priority is for as many fans to safely attend these events as possible. Consequently, BSB and BTCC events due to take place during this stage of the roadmap process could be rescheduled. The outcome of our discussions with the DCMS will determine this.”

MSV went on to reveal that Snetterton’s Kwik Fit British Touring Car Championship meeting on the weekend of May 15 could be moved until later in the year.

Prior to that, on April 17, the track will host the Historic Sports Car Club (HSCC) Racing, followed by the MSVR Club Car Championships the following weekend.

The Bennetts British Superbike Championship is due at Snetterton on June 18-20, with the British GT & British F3 Championships to come on August 7-8. To purchase tickets visit www.snetterton.msv.com