The Grands Prix in Bahrain will largely be held without fans ©Getty Images

Bahrain's two Grands Prix races are set to be held “predominantly without spectators”, with a limited number allocated for families of frontline health workers and first responders to recognise their contribution during the coronavirus pandemic.

Bahrain is scheduled to host racing on November 26 on the Bahrain International Circuit.

The second will then be held on the venue’s outer track, which has never previously held a major international race.

The race will be held on December 6, with the full night event known as the Sakhir Grand Prix.

The decision to limit the number of spectators was taken by Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the first deputy Prime Minister of Bahrain.

Discussions were held between the circuit and the Government of Bahrain, with the decision made as a result of the current situation regarding the coronavirus pandemic.

Bahrain said it remains focused on protecting the health of citizens and residents, maintaining one of the highest rates of testing per capita of anywhere in the world.

Healthcare workers will be among those able to attend in recognition of their efforts ©Getty Images
Healthcare workers will be among those able to attend in recognition of their efforts ©Getty Images

"I sincerely thank His Royal Highness the Crown Prince for his leadership, guidance and support as we prepare for Formula One, in what will be a very different event for all involved," said Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa, BIC chief executive.

"Whilst we will not be able to welcome many fans to our events this year, we are delighted to have the opportunity to recognise the courage and efforts of our frontline healthcare workers and first responders by allocating all in-person attendance of the F1 experience to them.

"We are determined to put on a show for the hundreds of millions of people who will be watching from the safety of their own homes around the world."

BIC says it is working closely with Formula One, the FIA and the relevant Government Ministries in Bahrain to ensure that the race proceeds with all necessary health protection measures in place, based on detailed and established protocols.

The two races in Bahrain feature in the final weeks of the Formula One season, which has been impacted by the coronavirus pandemic.

The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will follow the two races, with the 17th Grand Prix of the season rounding off the calendar.