North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper has extended the state’s stay-at-home orders by nine days but also appeared to indicate race teams could work in their shops.
“From the information that I have now, already under our state executive order they can begin working in their garages as an essential business defined under our executive order,” said Gov. Cooper on Thursday afternoon. “(Teams) are still in contact with local health departments. Local governments may have some different health restrictions.”
NASCAR’s plans to return to racing remain undefined, although officials recently stated hopes of being able to return sometime in May and different tracks have begun expressing interest in hosting a fan-less event.
“I’ve been in contact with NASCAR officials, track owners, team owners (and) they have come forward with a plan to try to protect their employees,” said Gov. Cooper when specifically asked about NASCAR. “Right now, our public health officials are examining their proposals, they’re also talking to local governments there, their garages in several counties around Charlotte … about how they would run their garages and to get the cars ready, they need a couple of weeks ahead of time.
“We’ll be coming forward with an announcement on that pretty soon, after we’ve had more conversations with public health officials and with NASCAR officials.”
— Racer —
Governor of North Carolina says NASCAR teams CAN work in race shops as an essential business.
— Jenna Fryer (@JennaFryer) April 23, 2020
BUT:
NC governor said today under the state order, race teams would be able to work in shops but local govt orders might be different. My research: Iredell doesn't have an order. Mecklenburg & Cabarrus (JGR/Hendrick/JTG/Roush/Ganassi/SHR) orders appear not to allow it, expire Apr 29
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) April 23, 2020
We need to slow the virus before we can ease restrictions, so today I’m extending the Stay At Home order until May 8. This includes continued closure of dine-in restaurants, bars & close-contact businesses like hair and nail salons, movie theaters & others in Executive Order 120.
— Governor Roy Cooper (@NC_Governor) April 23, 2020
Asked by Charlotte Observer about #NASCAR, NC Gov Roy Cooper says they are examining NASCAR proposal to run the 600 and times to get the cars ready. Said he expects an announcement on a decision soon after more talks with local health officials and #NASCAR officials.
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) April 23, 2020
ThorSport Racing, who runs three full-time Truck teams, including that of defending champion Matt Crafton, is located in Sandusky, Ohio. Ohio’s stay home orders are being relaxed beginning May 1.
After May 1, things will change some, but the essential reality is that this virus will remain out there, so our lives must be guided by that. We want to make sure every individual has as much info about their own condition and what risks there are.
— Governor Mike DeWine (@GovMikeDeWine) April 17, 2020