As NASCAR makes its first return to Michigan International Speedway since 2019, there will be a mask mandate in place.

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NASCAR Back in Michigan

Honestly, if they told us race fans would have to show up in straight-up hazmat suit if that meant we could still go in person.

My boyfriend and I have tickets to this weekend's race and I have been looking forward to it all year, especially considering my birthday is two days later.

There is a lot of excitement here in Michigan over NASCAR, not only for fans, but considering the chassis for the Next Gen cars that debut in the 2022 season are being made right in Jackson.

We were, however, wondering what our return to MIS for the Firekeepers Casino 400 on August 22nd would look like.

Sure, there was Faster Horses, but there were still quite a few COVID-19 cases to come out of that event. It is a relief to finally get some answers about what is expected of us.

MIS Mask Requirement(s)

Well, according to MLive, "Masks are required in indoor spaces for those attending the NASCAR Firekeepers Casino 400 at Michigan International Speedway."

"Indoor spaces" include the pit road suites, champions club, media center and more.

Track President, Rick Brenner, did tell MLive if you do not have a mask upon entering these spaces, one will be provided for you and hand sanitizer will be available to all.

Brenner acknowledged he "can't speak" for everyone but did also say "I would encourage people to come out and do what they feel is safe for them and let them know we’re doing everything we can according to the protocols to make this as safe as an event as possible."

Where The Decision Comes From

As the Delta Variant of COVID-19 makes its way across America, across Michigan and as of recently, in Jackson County, that definitely is cause for concern.

MLive also reports that the Faster Horses Festival, also hosted at MIS, drew in about 40,000 people and was linked to just over 100 coronavirus cases (as of August 9th).

All things considered, MLive says NASCAR and Michigan International Speedway are just following CDC recommendations and those from Michigan state health officials.

Masked or not, I know I also can't speak for everyone but me and mine would still be out there just excited to finally be able to see drivers take to the track in Michigan again.

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