MotoGP has confirmed more cancellations for 2020 season with British GP and Australian GP latest to join four others in the list.
After Qatar, Germany, Finland and Netherlands, MotoGP has confirmed the cancellation of British GP and Australian GP after the announcements from Silverstone and Philip Island. Both the rounds won’t be held in 2020 as they now prepare towards 2021 season.
The British MotoGP race was scheduled to take place on August 28-30, while the Australian event was scheduled for October 23-25. The cancellations means a total of six races has been omitted from the 2020 calendar as they try to have as many as possible.
Stuart Pringle, Silverstone MD, said: “We are extremely disappointed about the cancellation of the British MotoGP event, not least as the cancelled race in 2018 is still such a recent memory, but we support the decision that has had to be taken at this exceptional time.
“I want to thank the stoic British fans for their patience and support. We must now look forward to 2021 when Silverstone will once again host the fastest and most historic MotoGP race on the calendar and work hard to make it a truly exceptional event for all to enjoy.”
Paul Little AO, Australian Grand Prix Corporation Chairman added: “We’re very disappointed that MotoGP fans throughout Victoria, Australia and internationally won’t get the chance to make the pilgrimage to see the world’s best riders compete on one of the best circuits anywhere in the world, but the right decision has been made.
“The Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix puts Phillip Island on the global stage and it’ll be back better than ever in 2021.” And finally, Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of Dorna Sports, stated: “We’re saddened to have to announce the cancellation of these iconic events after finding no way through the logistical and operational issues resulting from the pandemic and rearranged calendar.
“Silverstone and Phillip Island are always two of the most thrilling race weekends of the season, with both tracks never failing in their promise to deliver some of the closest racing in our Championship. On behalf of Dorna, I would like to once again extend my thanks to the fans for their understanding and patience as we wait for the situation to improve.
“We look forward to returning to Silverstone and Phillip Island next year for more incredible battles.” The cancellation of British MotoGP race opens up a weekend for F1 or any other round to be held as Australia sees two major events cancellations.
For now, MotoGP is eyeing a mid-July start at Jerez with two rounds from July 17-19. No other dates and or venues have been mentioned yet apart from the Spanish circuit. Additionally, they are not certain as to how many rounds will be possible as well.
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