The public address system demanded spectators wear face masks or risk expulsion from the Sochi Autodrom. A crowd of some 20,000 over the weekend represented the biggest in Europe since the virus grabbed sport by the throat. Around 20,000 fans were in attendance across the weekend at the Russian Grand Prix. It was the biggest crowd in Europe since coronavirus’ considerable impact on sport. Yes, it all felt a bit different after most of the season has run without fans. The first, a smattering, returned for the Tuscan Grand Prix a fortnight ago. In all, 47,357 tests over three months have produced just 16 positives.

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