Like many industries, the automotive industry is being severely affected by the global coronavirus pandemic. The 2020 Geneva Motor Show was the first major auto event to be canceled to reduce the spread of the virus. Soon after, the 2020 New York Auto Show was postponed from April to August.

Many manufacturers such as Porsche, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, and Volkswagen have also shut down production facilities in response to the pandemic. Motorsport isn't immune either since popular race events attract thousands of fans. Last week, the opening round of the 2020 Formula One was due to start in Australia but was canceled just before the race weekend.

Now, the Nurburgring, one of the most famous racing circuits in the world, is closing down. According to an official announcement from organizers, all events at the Green Hell are canceled for the next month until April 19.

The decision to ban all motorsports meetings and leisure events comes from the "general order for further contact-reducing measures due to the advent of SARS-CoV-2 infections in Rhineland-Palatinate", issued by the district administration for the Area of the district of Ahrweiler in Germany. Presumably, refunds will be issued to customers who had already booked events but getting compensation for travel arrangements and accommodation could be more difficult.

For those who are brave enough to tackle the 12.9 mile-long circuit, the Nurburgring offers a variety of exhilarating driving experiences from high-speed passenger rides in a 585-hp Mercedes-AMG GT R to driving sessions in single-seater race cars and drifting lessons. Tourist rides also allow fans to drive a few laps around the circuit in either their own car or a rented car at their own risk. At least there won't be any accidents at the Nurburgring for the next month.

Unsurprisingly, motorsport events that were scheduled to take place at the Nurburgring have also been postponed. The 24 Hours of Nurburgring endurance race was originally due to start on May 23 but has been pushed back several months until September 26.