Long Beach requiring masks and proof of vaccination for IndyCar finale

The City of Long Beach issued large-scale changes to its COVID-19 health and safety protocols Wednesday, leaving significant changes for those planning to attend next month’s IndyCar season finale run in the city’s streets Sept. 26.

According to a release posted on the website for the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, Long Beach city officials issued an updated health order Wednesday, which went into effect on Thursday. In it, the city ordered organizers of outdoor events hosting more than 10,000 people to require patrons to wear masks at all times, indoors and outdoors, regardless of vaccination status.

According to the track, those exempt from wearing masks include: children younger than 2; those with a medical or mental health condition or disability that prevents them from wearing one; or those who are hearing impaired or communicating with someone  “where the ability to see the mouth is essential for communication.”

Additionally, the order now requires that all staff and spectators for the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach to either show proof of vaccination status or a recent negative test for COVID-19 in order to enter the race venue Sept. 24-26.