Image: Supplied.

Ticket sales for the 2020 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship have been temporarily placed on hold as MX Sports Pro Racing and round organizers adapt to the evolving dynamics associated with COVID-19.

The collective decision has been made by all parties, with an emphasis on being properly prepared to address the safety and wellbeing of those in attendance.

The ongoing development of protocols that will need to be implemented this summer are being spearheaded by the Race Leadership Team’s ‘Safe-to-Race Task Force’ – a diverse group with specific expertise in areas of medical care, public health, government relations, information technology and event promotion.

“There is nothing more important to MX Sports Pro Racing, the organizers, and the entire motocross community than the return of the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, commented competition director Roy Janson. “We are making sure we do everything in our power to ensure that a successful 2020 season can get underway this June.

“As states, counties and cities across the country begin to take the initial steps towards a return to the resumption of normal life, the ‘Safe-to-Race Task Force’ is serving an invaluable role in the diligent efforts being made to take any necessary steps to provide a safe environment for the nationals to take place

“Alongside each organizer, the task force is working closely with the local government and health officials surrounding each venue to determine what the necessary parameters will be for welcoming fans during the 49th season of the world’s most prestigious off-road motorcycle racing series.”

In bringing together a collection of some of the most experienced, knowledgeable, and savvy minds in the industry, the unified development of an informational tool kit will help motorsports organizers at all levels, including national caliber venues and local tracks, navigate the complicated road to reopening.

While operational logistics regarding various social distancing measures and potential on-site testing for COVID-19 continue to develop with local officials, the temporary hold of ticket sales will allow for these updated measures to take effect without further complication.

Fans that have already purchased tickets to a 2020 National will not need to take any additional action at this time, but should a refund be necessary, purchasers have until a week before their respective event to take action, even if it’s been rescheduled.

The amended 11-round series for the 2020 season is currently slated to begin with the Florida National, on June 13, and will be followed by High Point (June 20), Southwick (June 27), RedBud (July 4), Thunder Valley (July 11), Spring Creek (July 18) and Washougal (July 25).

Following a two-week break, the championship will return for its stretch run, beginning with the Unadilla National (August 15), followed by Budds Creek (August 22), Ironman (August 29) and Fox Raceway, which will end the season on Labor Day weekend (September 5).