F1 has confirmed that both the organisers of the Dutch GP and Spanish GP are in talks with the sport regarding their grand prix situation due to COVID-19.
A day after F1 cancelled Australian GP after teams voted against the race happening when one member of McLaren team was tested positive for COVID-19, the races in Bahrain and Vietnam were postponed to safeguard fans and all associated with the grand prix.
The statement from F1 added that they expect racing to begin by the end of May, which put a question mark over Dutch GP (May 5) and also Spanish GP (May 10). If we go by their word, it looks like Monaco GP (May 24) is being targeted for 2020 season to start.
If not that then Azerbaijan GP (June 7) is next. F1 is currently deliberating the 2020 race calendar which could see the August break being eaten up and the season ending well into December, should they wish to hold at least 18-20 races from the 22.
For now, the organisers of both Dutch GP and Spanish GP are in touch with the F1 authorities as they check on the evolving situation, which is changing on a daily basis. The WHO has clarified that Europe is the new epicenter of the outbreak.
The Dutch GP organiser in a statement, stated: “Based on reports from Formula One Management and FIA, we are in joint consultation with them about the possible consequences for the Formula 1 Heineken Dutch Grand Prix.
“These are not yet fully known, but in the event of possible postponement, all tickets will remain valid. As soon as more news is known, we will share it with all parties involved.” At the same time, the Circuit de Catalunya-Barcelona, stated:
“Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya will continue monitoring the evolution of the pandemic, staying in permanent contact with the different bodies and health authorities in order to continue implementing the applicable measures and recommendations, ensuring the health and safety of our visitors.
“We are sorry for the inconveniences that these changes may have caused and we offer our apologies to all fans and customers that have been affected by these extraordinary measures.” The situation as Chase Carey stated, remains fluid, at the moment.
Here’s news on F1 postponing Baharain, Vietnam