LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — NASCAR weekend is back in Las Vegas and with one race already under the speedway's belt, it's clear this year's races are very different than we are used to without fans.
No one is allowed inside the speedway’s stands other than racers, crews, officials, and a handful of media members attending.
The thunderous sound of engines is bouncing off empty stands as the pandemic continues to put a hold on large sporting event gatherings.
No fans at NASCAR South Point 400 this weekend
Friday, 26-year-old Austin Hill took first place for the second straight year in the Westgate 200 Truck Series race - accepting his win without the cheer of spectators.
Heading into the weekend, Las Vegas Motor Speedway President Chris Powell said he disagreed with Nevada Gov. Steve Sisolak's policies on limiting fans at sporting events, but that he had no choice to comply.
Powell did say the track looks forward to welcoming fans back in 2021 and NASCAR officials believe the demand is there.
"We're going to have four races in three days. So, it's a tremendous honor and privilege to be here racing in Vegas. We wish we could have our fans here because we know Las Vegas loves NASCAR and NASCAR loves Las Vegas,” said Matt Humphrey, director of racing communications at NASCAR.
Track officials say they will be in contact with any ticket holders to discuss a refund or credits when it comes to this year's event.
The ALSCO 300 is scheduled Saturday at 4:30 p.m. and the weekend will end with the South Point 400 on Sunday at 4 p.m.
