Formula One fans wait for the drives at the track in Melbourne on March 12, 2020, ahead of the Formula One Australian Grand Prix. (GLENN NICHOLLS / AFP)

SYDNEY - The Australian Grand Prixopened its doors to the public on Thursday, despite ongoing concerns regarding COVID-19 and three racing team members being quarantined.

Australian officials said the threat to public health was minimal and that steps were being taken to reduce the risk, such as extra hand washing stations

Two members of the Haas F1 racing team and one from McLaren were placed in a precautionary quarantine on Wednesday evening after displaying symptoms of the virus.

According to Australian Grand Prix CEO Andrew Westacott, all three personnel had undergone testing and were awaiting results.

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Despite the situation, members of the public turned out in droves to the city of Melbourne's Albert Park Circuit to catch a glimpse of their racing heroes arrive at the track, with exhibition races taking place throughout the day.

Australian officials said the threat to public health was minimal and that steps were being taken to reduce the risk, such as extra hand washing stations.

"The advice is that it is not proportionate to cancel that event, or any other event at this stage," Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.

On Wednesday night, Australian F1 star Daniel Ricciardo pulled out of a Renault team press event due to fears of infection.

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"Our drivers were supposed to be with us for this event but due to the situation we've excused them for the occasion," team principal Cyril Abiteboul told reporters.

"I hope you understand why we are taking such measures."

Practice laps begin on Friday ahead of the championship race scheduled for Sunday.