Organisers of the World Rally Championship have confirmed the postponement of planned upcoming rounds in Portugal and Italy.
The WRC season began with events in Monte Carlo and Sweden while the Mexican round took place before being truncated as the coronavirus spread worsened.
The Portuguese round was planned for 21-24 May while Italy was due to host the championship from 4-7 June.
Both countries are under various states of emergency due to the pandemic.
“We wish to thank all our supporters and partners for their understanding, and we look forward to welcoming them in Matosinhos at a later stage this year,” said Automovel Club de Portugal President Carlos Barbosa.
Automobile Club d’Italia president Angelo Sticchi Damiani said: “Automobile Club d’Italia, as the federation of Italian motor racing and as Rally Italia Sardegna organiser, has made itself available, with the FIA and with the WRC Promoter, to study a possible new date for an event of great prestige and great historical importance.”
“All parties will work to identify potential alternative dates for the postponed rallies later in the season should the COVID-19 situation improve, taking into consideration championship logistics, the ability of competitors to travel again and the ability of the country in question to prepare and host the WRC at such a time,” said WRC Promoter managing director Oliver Ciesla.
Sebastien Ogier currently leads the standings after three rounds, eight points clear of Elfyn Evans.
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