Organisers of Formula 1 grands prix in the Netherlands and Spain say they are in discussion with the championship, amid fears that their respective events will be postponed.
The world is in the grip of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, which has caused events to be cancelled or postponed, with worldwide travel heavily disrupted.
Formula 1 cancelled its Australian Grand Prix on Friday morning – just two hours prior to FP1 – while the next planned rounds in Bahrain and Vietnam have been postponed.
It means the Dutch Grand Prix, on May 3, and Spanish Grand Prix, on May 10, are currently set to open the season, though it is understood that this scenario is unlikely.
“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,” read a statement.
“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.”
The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, where pre-season testing was held, has canned all planned events through mid-April.
“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,” said a statement.
It added that it is “already analysing the different available options with Formula 1” in the event of a postponement.
It is understood that June’s Azerbaijan Grand Prix has been circled as a potential date to begin the 2020 season though this remains tentative, given global uncertainty.
The summer break is likely to be abandoned altogether, freeing up August for grands prix, while the season could be pushed back into December.
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