Formula 1 Confirms Cancellation Of Azerbaijan, Singapore, And Japanese Grand Prix

Formula One has confirmed that the 2020 Azerbaijan, Singapore and Japanese Grand Prix have been cancelled in light of the Covid-19 pandemic. The decision to cancel these races was taken after highlighting challenges that organisers are facing.

Formula 1 Confirms Cancellation Of Azerbaijan, Singapore, And Japanese Grand Prix

A statement from F1 released this morning said, "As a result of the ongoing challenges presented by COVID-19, we and our promoters in Azerbaijan, Singapore and Japan have taken the decision to cancel their races for the 2020 season."

Formula 1 Confirms Cancellation Of Azerbaijan, Singapore, And Japanese Grand Prix

Long lead times in Singapore and Azerbaijan require more time to construct street circuits that make hosting the events during a period of uncertainty impossible, and current travel restrictions in Japan lead to the decision of cancelling the race.

Formula 1 Confirms Cancellation Of Azerbaijan, Singapore, And Japanese Grand Prix

Formula 1 however, has made progress with existing and new promoters on the revised calendar, and feel encouraged by the interest shown by new venues in hosting a Formula 1 race during the 2020 season.

Formula 1 Confirms Cancellation Of Azerbaijan, Singapore, And Japanese Grand Prix

The racing series said they would continue to proceed with the 2020 season in a cautious and flexible way. The Series has a detailed, and robust safety plan in place to ensure that the 2020 season will begin in the safest possible way.

Formula 1 Confirms Cancellation Of Azerbaijan, Singapore, And Japanese Grand Prix

F1 Chief Ross Brawn said organisers are confident of having a fantastic second half of the season, but added that was a contingency in place for an extended European season with a few more races - hinting at the possibility of maybe five or six additional races in the season.

Formula 1 Confirms Cancellation Of Azerbaijan, Singapore, And Japanese Grand Prix

Mr Brawn said, "Things are moving fast, but we still have time. We have lots of different options and we're very confident we're going to have a great second half of the season."

Formula 1 Confirms Cancellation Of Azerbaijan, Singapore, And Japanese Grand Prix

"There is a contingency to have an extended European season with another one or two races if needed. I think Bahrain and Abu Dhabi will be the backstop of the season from what we can see at the moment. That gives us 10. We'll find at least five or six good races in the middle," he added.

Formula 1 Confirms Cancellation Of Azerbaijan, Singapore, And Japanese Grand Prix

Formula 1 is in the process of evaluating other European tracks like Ferrari-owned Mugello, Imola, Portimao, and Hockenheim as all potential racing venues.

Formula 1 Confirms Cancellation Of Azerbaijan, Singapore, And Japanese Grand Prix

Thoughts About The Azerbaijan, Singapore and Japanese Grand Prix Being Cancelled

Not very exciting news for fans. In addition to the fans and enthusiasts of the sport, a shorter racing season affects local economies at places where races are cancelled. We hope the 2021 season brings better news!


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Read more on: #formula one
Article Published On: Friday, June 12, 2020, 18:14 [IST]
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