Even though South Africa has now moved into Level 4 lockdown, the picture is unfortunately no clearer as to when our sport will be able to resume. The only good news is that each day that passes means one day closer to going racing, whenever this may eventually be!
Although the future is impossible to predict, MSA is hopeful that racing will be able to resume in the latter part of July (hopefully sooner). Initially, this may only be at club level as regional and national racing will require people crossing provincial boundaries. It is however clear that, when racing does resume (likely without spectators being permitted), all Covid-19 hygiene requirements will need to be taken into account, e.g. masks will need to be worn and suitable hand washing/hand sanitising measures will need to be in place. Appropriate social distancing measures will also need to be maintained, which will impact on areas such as drivers/riders briefings, prize giving functions and hearings with competitors.
MSA fully understands that competitors have questions regarding the competition licences and personal accident insurance cover they have obtained from MSA for the season, when racing has been suspended for an indeterminate period. Logically, any decisions can only be made in this regard when there is clarity as to when racing can actually resume but competitors can rest assured of MSA’s commitment to ensuring that competitors are treated fairly with regard to their licences and insurance cover.
Finally, MSA has been utilising the sport’s downtime to spend time on the development of online training seminars for Clerks of the Course/Stewards, Technical Consultants, Scrutineers, Race Secretaries, Environmental Officials and Chief Medical Officers. Without adequate trained race officials, motorsport will simply cease to exist. The move to a more online medium will make training more accessible to both newcomers and existing race officials and thereby help to bolster both the numbers and skills of race officials.
MSA will communicate further with stakeholders as and when any circumstances change.