Motorsport’s governing body, the FIA, has announced the formation of a Crisis Cell in order to track the potential impact of the COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak.
The virus is thought to have originated in mainland China but in recent weeks has rapidly spread around the world, prompting travel restrictions and the cancellation of major events.
Formula E has postponed the Sanya E-Prix and Rome E-Prix while Formula 1’s Chinese Grand Prix will not go ahead as planned in April.
The championship is pressing on with its opening trio of events in Australia, Bahrain and Vietnam, though some travel plans have been re-arranged in order to avoid connecting hubs such as Singapore and Hong Kong.
Organisers in Bahrain are attempting to implement specific measures in order to permit entry to those who have recently been in Italy, which is at the centre of a Europe’s outbreak.
On Friday the World Motor Sport Council met in Geneva, where FIA Medical Commission President Professor Gerard Saillant gave a presentation on the development of the outbreak.
The FIA Crisis Cell will convene every second day in order to “consider the latest developments around the world.
“The FIA continues to closely monitor the situation and its implications, together with its Member Clubs and Promoters, and follows the advice of relevant authorities including Governments and the World Health Organisation.
“The FIA will evaluate the calendar of its forthcoming competitions and take any action required to help protect the global motor sport community and the wider public, including the postponement of competitions where necessary.”
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