MEMBERS of the MotoGP fraternity have been reminded to follow strict standard operating procedures (SOPs) when the top tier two wheels race championship resumes at the Jerez Circuit in Spain this weekend.

This is important in curbing the spread of Covid-19, according to a joint statement issued by the International Motorcycling Federation (FIM) president Jorge Viegas (picture); International Road-Racing Teams Association (IRTA) president Herve Poncharal and Dorna Sports SL CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta.

“Before arriving at the Circuito de Jerez-Angel Nieto…and once you have been tested, each member of the paddock must self-isolate as much as possible and avoid all unnecessary contact with others,” the statement said.

The statement also revealed that this weekend’s race will be held under new norms, with a more comprehensive medical protocol that will be introduced to ensure that everyone present at the race will adhere to the highest safety standards set by FIM, IRTA and Dorna Sports.

“It is essential that all confinement rules are followed strictly, and all participants must only go to the circuit and hotel. We will be missing many members of the paddock, and we’re grateful for their work from a distance, and of course, for now, we will unfortunately also be missing all our fans in the grandstands,” it added.

The statement also said stern action will be taken against anyone found breaching the medical protocol on and off the circuit.

The 2020 MotoGP World Championship will resume this weekend, starting with the free practice session on Friday, followed by the qualifying session on Saturday, before the proper race on Sunday. — Bernama