The FIA has confirmed that the F1 shutdown for teams and engine manufacturers’ has been further extended due to COVID-19 pandemic.
Following the initial news on the F1 shutdown being brought forward to March-April, there is now an extension into May as well due to the COVID-19 pandemic as FIA confirms the latest decision taken by World Motor Sport Council (WMSC).
The initial period was already extended to 35 days and now it has been pushed for a total of 63 days for F1 teams, while for manufacturers’, it extends from 36 to 49 consecutive days. There is a leeway, however, for the engine manufacturers’.
Post the 36 days, the manufacturers’ can have 10 people working on future projects remotely but with the prior permission of the FIA through an application. The extension of days was bound to happen considering the worsening situation around the globe.
F1, though, has released details on what they are planning as they hope to start the 2020 season in July with the Austrian GP and hold 15-18 races until December mid. Whether it is possible or not, it remains to be seen, as it all depends on each country’s restrictions.
The full statement from FIA:
“The World Motor Sport Council has approved a further extension to the shutdown period for competitors and Power Unit manufacturers in the FIA Formula One World Championship in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
“All competitors must now observe a shutdown period increased from 35 to 63 consecutive days during the months of March, April, May and/or June. 50 days after the start of their shutdown period, upon application by a competitor, and subject to the prior written approval of the FIA, each competitor may use the services of a maximum of ten personnel to work remotely on long lead time projects.
“The shutdown period for Power Unit manufacturers has been extended from 35 to 49 consecutive days during the months of March, April, May and/or June. 36 days after the start of their shutdown period, upon application by a Power Unit manufacturer, and subject to the prior written approval of the FIA, each Power Unit manufacturer may use the services of a maximum of ten personnel to work remotely on long lead time projects.”
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