Motorsport Australia has outlined its strategy to allow motorsport to resume across the country in the coming weeks and months.

The Return To Race document,  available to read at Motorsport Australia’s detailed COVID-19 Resource Centre, provides a detailed strategy based on the Federal Government’s National Principles for the Resumption of Sport and Recreation Activities.

Motorsport Australia CEO Eugene Arocca said the document had been submitted to the Federal Government, as well as all state and territory governments around the country to outline the strategies that will be put in place to allow motorsport to resume safely in each jurisdiction.

“Motorsport is unlike any other sport. We certainly believe it’s a low risk sport when it comes to any potential transmission of COVID-19 given that motorsport is conducted outdoors, usually on a large site area,” Arocca explained.

“However, that doesn’t mean we can just go back to running events as we previously did. Return To Race clearly outlines all steps our event organisers, officials and competitors should take to make our events as safe as possible based on the framework put forward by the Federal Government.”

Arocca also said a dedicated COVID-19 checker must also be used at each event, who will be solely responsible for ensuring compliance with the Motorsport Australia regulations as part of Return To Race.

“This strategy outlines the importance of avoiding gatherings or meetings, instead using technology such as Zoom to host drivers’ briefings for example. We’re also providing other key steps that event organisers, officials and competitors need to take to ensure everyone’s health and safety, depending on their role.

“While drivers may be ‘cocooned’ in their vehicles when on track or on a stage, there are obviously many other things that need to be considered before an event can go ahead. This includes understanding how to manage a busy pit lane, scrutineering and of course our managing officials scattered across an event site who often need to work in small groups. The Return To Race document addresses those concerns to ensure event organisers are aware of their responsibilities.

“Importantly, we’re also encouraging our members to download the COVIDSafe App to ensure the safety of everyone at any future events. This will allow everyone to have some peace of mind that in the unlikely event of a positive case at an event, the authorities can notify everyone accordingly.”

Motorsport Australia President Andrew Papadopoulos said the document had also been sent to the FIA and would likely be used as a blueprint for countries around the world.

"Australian motorsport is a world leader and this document once again highlights Motorsport Australia's leadership and ability to set a precedent for other countries to follow," Papadopoulos said.

"Motorsport Australia is determined to see motorsport up and running in the short term and we are excited about the prospect of its return in a safe, healthy and responsible manner."

As highlighted in Return To Race, events will be run without spectators based on current advice, with social distancing and extra hygiene products to be made available throughout an event.

To read Motorsport Australia's Return To Race document and to visit our dedicated COVID-19 Resource Centre:  www.motorsport.org.au/covid19.