F1 finally grasped the severity of the coronavirus pandemic and cancelled the 2020 Australian Grand Prix. In addition to that, the Chinese, Bahrain and Vietnamese GPs have been postponed. As a result, the 2020 Formula One season may be pushed back to late May.
The COVID-19 outbreak originated from China, which meant that hosting the Chinese Grand Prix was out of question. To make matters worse, the opening race in Melbourne has also been canned. Apparently, a McLaren team member tested positive for the virus, with tests conducted on 8 others.
Additionally, the saga has sorely affected the Bahrain Grand Prix. Initially, it was supposed to take place behind closed doors, but now that is not possible. The pandemic has even forced the postponement of the inaugural Vietnam Grand Prix.
A joint statement read, “Following the announcement of the Australian Grand Prix’s cancellation this week and the ongoing and fluid nature of the COVID-19 situation globally, Formula 1, the FIA and the promoters have taken these decisions in order to ensure the health and safety of the travelling staff, championship participants and fans, which remains our primary concern.”
When will the F1 season get back on track?
Admittedly, F1 and the respective parties hope that the races could be rescheduled at a later date. The statement further stated that the F1 season is aiming to commence end of May.
F1 chairman Chase Carey, insisted that fan safety as well as the F1 personnel was their top priority. He is aware that the situation is difficult to anticipate, so the sport needs some time to assess the situation and make informed decisions.
Carey affirmed that the sport is not taking this decision lightly. Everyone wishes to ensure the safety of Formula 1 personnel and the fans.
Even FIA President Jean Todt insisted that the sport needs to protect the people first. This is why postponing the Australian, Bahrain and Vietnam Grands Prix was the only logal decision.
Todt concluded, “We continue to rely on the input and advice from the World Health Organisation (WHO) and governments and will work with them throughout this unpredictable period to safeguard the fans, competitors and all of the motor sport community.”
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