AMG GT R

Segment
Coupe

Like countless other non-essential businesses, the Nurburgring track in Germany was forced to shut down last month due to the coronavirus pandemic. Although the activity involves driving a vehicle on track, there were simply too many off-track instances when participants would be in close personal contact with each other and track officials. The risks were simply too great. However, necessary solutions have now been found. Track officials have just announced new health guidelines that will allow the famed and feared Green Hell to reopen for the always popular tourist drives.

Beginning this Thursday, April 30, "contactless tourist trips" will get underway that, as always, enable anyone with a street-legal car to show up and buy some lap time. Here's how it'll work.

Tickets will only be sold online instead of in-person purchases. Whether you're there to drive or not, visitors are not allowed under any circumstances to exit their vehicles. The sole exception is a specifically designated and disinfected restroom located near the track's entrance. A maximum of two people per vehicle is permitted and the parking lot located near the track's tourist entrance will remain closed in order to prevent people from gathering.

Track employees have been specially trained and equipped with masks and disposable gloves as well. It's not exactly business as usual but given the circumstances, it'll have to do for the foreseeable future.

So, if you've been anxious to get out of the house (and who isn't these days?) and hop in a Mercedes-AMG GT, Honda Civic Type R, or any other road-legal vehicle and drive it on one of the most famous road courses in the world, the Green Hell is beckoning once again. There still remains one vital issue most people will now encounter: how to get to Germany unless you already live there.

One step at a time, folks.