The promoters of Canadian GP have officially postponed the 2020 F1 race due to the COVID-19 pandemic, making it the ninth grand prix to be hampered.
The Canadian GP at the Circuit de Gilles Villeneuve has become the ninth in a long line of F1 races to be affected as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, as the race – scheduled as the unofficial season-opener on June 12-14 stands postponed.
The Canadian GP promoters said that they will take a decision by mid-April but they have done it a little before but on the expected lines. As a result, the French GP at the Circuit Paul Ricard has become the effective 2020 F1 season-opener – for now, at least.
Although at this rate that event’s date of June 26-28 looks somewhat optimistic. Couple that with rumors that the British GP’s July date might be threatened after Wimbledon cancellation, and it seems likely that, too, will see changes of some sort.
However, we won’t know for sure until F1 releases a revised schedule – something they’ve reassured fans that they are working on but do not want to hurry as things are changing on a daily basis. They have also extended the summer break to 35 days now.
The full statement from F1 Canadian GP:
We would have been honored to present the very first round of the 2020 Formula 1 World Championship, but we regret to announce in our turn the postponement of the Formula 1 Grand Prix of Canada 2020 scheduled for June 12, 13 and 14 .
Over the past month, we have been in constant communication with members of Formula 1 as well as representatives from the city of Montreal, Tourisme Montreal and from the provincial and federal governments, and we have heard the directives issued by the officials of public health. As a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are complying with the recommendations of the experts in authority.
Our thoughts and sincere thanks go to those who work tirelessly to keep us healthy, protect us and feed us during this difficult period. “I am proud to see all the technological initiatives and advancements that emanate from Formula 1 during this period of crisis. At this time, it is essential to concentrate all our efforts to counter COVID-19.
“We will be ready to welcome you with open arms to the Gilles-Villeneuve circuit as soon as the situation allows,” said Francois Dumontier, President and CEO of the Formula 1 Grand Prix of Canada.
“We have been working closely with our friends at the Canadian Grand Prix for several weeks to support them in this necessary decision-making process which ensures the safety of the fans and the F1 community. We are always looking forward to going to this wonderful city of Montreal and even if we have to wait a little longer before our arrival, we will present a spectacular show later this year,” said Chase Carey President and CEO of F1.
To our ticket holders, rest assured that your tickets for the FORMULA 1 GRAND PRIX DU CANADA 2020 remain valid. As soon as the new date for the presentation of the event is known, all spectators will be informed of the options available to them, whether they have purchased their tickets via the event website (gpcanada.ca) or via other sales platforms.
Here’s what came last from Canadian GP
Here’s news on shutdown extension
Here’s the latest from FIA on 2020/2021 changes
Here’s Mattia Binotto on the talked upon schedule changes
The article was edited by Darshan Chokhani
