LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The Indianapolis Motor Speedway announced Tuesday the Indianapolis 500 will run without fans on August 23.

In light of the decision, Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer was asked if he believes Churchill Downs should reach the same conclusion when the 146th Kentucky Derby happens September 5. 

“This next week, this next two weeks is supercritical for decisions as it relates to the Kentucky Derby. I think there are high levels of awareness,” Fischer said Tuesday. 

Back on June 25, Churchill President Kevin Flannery announced the Derby would move ahead with fans in the stands though at a slightly reduced number. Flannery also outlined new protocols for spectator movement throughout the grounds. At the time of this announcement, Flannery also said Churchill's plans could change. 

On Tuesday Churchill spokesperson Darren Rogers sent Spectrum News 1 this statement.  

“We continue to work on a detailed plan that is specific to Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby. Our protocols as they relate to spectators and safety are under constant thorough review and involve ongoing consultation with medical experts and public health authorities. We expect to provide updates to any changes and details shortly.”

While the mayor did not say explicitly whether he expects fans to be in the stands on September 5 he did say Kentucky’s number of COVID-19 cases and deaths is fewer than what Indiana is currently experiencing. 

“Indiana, their positivity rate, their incidents, their deaths are significantly more than ours here. We went home earlier, we left home earlier so we have been able to manage the virus a little bit better,” Fischer said.