Silverstone has confirmed that it has reached an agreement in principle to host two Formula 1 races behind closed doors this summer, subject to government approval.
Formula 1 is poised to begin its delayed 2020 campaign with successive races at the Red Bull Ring on July 5/12, subject to the Austrian government approving its proposal.
It had earmarked Silverstone as the location for its next event but had to re-negotiate terms with the venue on account of the grands prix being held without spectators.
On Friday Silverstone revealed that it has concluded an agreement with Formula 1 and will stage two races later in 2020.
Dates have not yet been confirmed but MotorsportWeek.com understands that the races will be held on July 26 and August 2 respectively.
“I am delighted to confirm that Silverstone and Formula 1 have reached an agreement in principle to host two races behind closed doors this summer,” said Silverstone Managing Director Stuart Pringle.
“However these races will be subject to Government approval, as our priority is the safety of all involved and strict compliance with COVID-19 regulations.
“I would like to thank all our fans who have been so supportive throughout this and to assure them we are determined to do all we can to help Formula 1 put on a show this summer.”
The UK Government is poised to implement a mandatory 14-day quarantine period for any traveller arriving in the country from abroad, but hinted that there will be exemptions made.
Silverstone has already confirmed that any ticket holders for its 2020 event can apply for either a full refund or transfer the ticket for the respective 2021 grand prix.
Earlier on Friday it was announced that the Walloon Government has approved plans for a Belgian Grand Prix this year, giving event organisers the green light to negotiate terms with Liberty Media.
It is understood that Germany’s Hockenheim circuit has been lined up as a replacement for Silverstone should the UK government’s measures prove insurmountable.
Other European rounds in Hungary and Spain, both behind closed doors, are also being planned for August.
The 2020 season is then set to take in Azerbaijan and Russia in September, before visits to Asia and America, concluding in Bahrain and Abu Dhabi, with a date of December 13 provisionally set for the finale.
Discussion about this post