Rescheduled Kentucky Derby will feature spectators in the grandstands, officials reveal, but with reduced numbers and fans 'encouraged' to wear masks

• The Kentucky Derby typically jams around 150,000 people into the stands   
• Officials said that a limited number of spectator will be granted access this year 
• The pandemic postponed the Derby's crown jewel, the Triple Crown event, from the first Saturday in May to the first Saturday in September  

The rescheduled Kentucky Derby will allow a limited number of spectators in the grandstands, officials revealed yesterday, but with fans 'encouraged' to wear face masks.  

The Derby typically jams around 150,000 people into the track for the usual opening race, the Triple Crown, where three-year-old thoroughbreds race against each other in three contests.

But the coronavirus pandemic forced postponement of the event from the first Saturday in May to the first Saturday in September and shuffled the Triple Crown order. 

Churchill Downs consulted with Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear and state public health officials before imposing strict guidelines to allow a limited number of spectators for the Derby and the Kentucky Oaks race the day before. 

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In this May 4, 2019, file photo, Luis Saez rides Maximum Security, right, across the finish line first against Flavien Prat on Country House during the 145th running of the Kentucky Derby horse race at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky

Exact spectator numbers have not yet been determined but the safety rules and regulations they must follow include:

Seating and infield area capacity reductions to limit crowd density.

Limited facility access, including barn area restrictions to essential personnel and calling off all guests and parties in the barn area.

Venue operations changes will limit person-to-person touchpoints with revised safety rules for fans and employees, including wearing masks at all times while at the track and social distancing whenever possible.

'Both employees and guests are asked to take an active role in following all guidelines,' Downs President Kevin Flanery said. 

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Fans are seen at the 143rd Kentucky Derby on May 6, 2017 in Louisville, Kentucky

'We must all do our part to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience.'

'Our team is deeply committed to holding the very best Kentucky Derby ever, and we will take all necessary steps to protect the health and safety of all who attend and participate in the Derby,' he added. 

'In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we have established a comprehensive set of operating procedures, which include a multitude of precautionary measures to be followed while fans are in attendance at our facility. 

'We are determined to keep our customers, employees and communities as safe as we responsibly can.'