The Circuito de Jerez Becomes a COVID-19-Free Venue for Three Weeks: Two MotoGP Races and One Superbike Round

The Circuito de Jerez–Ángel Nieto hosted the return of top-level motorcycle racing, staging two MotoGP Grand Prix weekends and one Superbike World Championship round over three consecutive weekends (17–19 July, 24–26 July, and 31 July–2 August). The return of the world's premier motorcycle championships took place under strict COVID-19 health and safety protocols designed to protect everyone involved in the event.

To minimise the risk of infection, all three races were held behind closed doors, without spectators, unlike previous years when the circuit welcomed tens of thousands of fans.

These comprehensive safety measures were approved by Spain's Higher Sports Council (Consejo Superior de Deportes – CSD) and began with extensive COVID-19 screening of every professional required to work at the Circuit during the events.

As the official medical services provider for the Circuito de Jerez–Ángel Nieto, Semesur Assistance was responsible for carrying out COVID-19 testing for all personnel authorised to access the venue.

Since preparations began in early July, testing was scheduled approximately five days before the start of each event, ensuring that screening took place as close as possible to the beginning of operations. The objective was clear: to ensure, as far as possible, that everyone entering the Circuit was free from COVID-19.

Every member of staff underwent two separate diagnostic tests:

• A PCR test, capable of detecting active SARS-CoV-2 infection during its early stages.

• An ELISA antibody blood test, used to determine whether an individual had developed antibodies following a previous infection.

Combining both tests significantly reduced the possibility of undetected cases, recognising that COVID-19 progresses through different stages during infection.

This screening programme formed one of the most important elements of the MotoGP health protocol because the aim was to maintain the Circuit's secure operational zone as a COVID-19-free environment.

This restricted area included the paddock, team garages, pit lane, and medical centre, where approximately 1,600 accredited personnel worked throughout the events. Every individual entering these areas was required to meet strict health requirements.

To carry out this programme, Semesur Assistance deployed a dedicated mobile medical unit equipped with the highest level of personal protective equipment (PPE). Testing was organised by appointment only to avoid crowding, and all sample collection was performed outdoors whenever possible to further reduce the risk of transmission.

Test results were uploaded to a dedicated mobile application used by everyone authorised to enter the Circuit. The app functioned as a digital health pass, allowing access only to individuals who had received negative results from both required tests.

Following the successful completion of this initial screening phase, Semesur Assistance continued providing comprehensive medical services throughout each race weekend, once again playing a key role in the healthcare operation supporting one of the world's leading motorcycle racing championships during the COVID-19 pandemic.