CONCORD, N.C. -- Two NASCAR Cup Series races have been postponed due to concerns over the novel coronavirus known as COVID-19, the sanctioning body announced Friday.
"NASCAR has decided to postpone the race events at Atlanta Motor Speedway this weekend and Homestead-Miami Speedway next weekend," the organization said in a statement. "We believe this decision is in the best interest of the safety and well-being of our fans, competitors, officials and everyone associated with our sport. We will continue to monitor this dynamic situation as we assess future race events."
Hendrick Motorsports tweeted its support of NASCAR's decision.
Seven-time Cup champion Jimmie Johnson also called it “the right decision.”
In an effort to prevent community spread of the virus, Hendrick Motorsports announced Thursday that its campus will be temporarily closed to the public. Its museum, team store and race shops are typically open to fans at no cost.
Hendrick Motorsports will provide updates as more information becomes available.