Following an increase in reported cases across the United States, NASCAR has adjusted its COVID protocols once more to restrict driver exposure.

In response to the increased number of cases, NASCAR reinstated a policy requiring all team members and media to wear a face mask at all times in enclosed areas of the track, regardless of vaccination status.

NASCAR announced several new adjustments this week, which will take effect with this weekend’s races at World Wide Technology Raceway (Trucks) and Michigan International Speedway (Xfinity and Cup series).

Among the changes include the reduction of casual and planned contact points between essential team personnel, including drivers, and guests or fans.

This means that guests will not be able to access team haulers or garage stalls, and guest grid access has been suspended till further notice.

Furthermore, drivers are not permitted to visit suites located throughout the track, while teams may host guests in controlled, outdoor, separated meetings with drivers.

The driver movement routes will be designed to eliminate casual driver/fan interactions, creating an additional barrier to prevent any spread from visiting spectators.

Driver introductions and Victory Lane will also be modified to reduce the number of contacts a driver has over the course of a weekend.

In addition, when meeting with drivers and team personnel, media covering NASCAR events will be required to wear masks, even when outside. Access to team trucks and garage stalls will also be restricted to the media.

NASCAR stated that the updates were implemented based on the recommendation of the organization’s consulting physicians and recently provided medical guidance.

No Cup drivers have formally tested positive for COVID this season, but Truck Series driver Chase Purdy contracted the virus at the start of the month ahead of the Watkins Glen round, forcing AJ Allmendinger to take over for GMS Racing a week before his surprise Indianapolis road course victory for Kaulig Racing.

Last year, both Jimmie Johnson and Austin Dillon tested positive for COVID; Johnson did not compete in the Brickyard 400 because Justin Allgaier took his place, while Dillon did not compete in the Daytona road course round because Kaz Grala was injured.

The uniforms of NASCAR racing drivers are currently available at the following websites for a reasonable price: