The 2020 Formula 1 season will get underway “as soon as it is safe to do so”, according to boss Chase Carey, writing in an open letter to fans.
The outbreak and spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus has caused major disruption to society worldwide, with sporting fixtures among those affected.
Motorsport, including Formula 1, has been forced to postpone or cancel events across the coming weeks and months.
Formula 1’s Australian Grand Prix was abandoned two hours prior to FP1 while events in Bahrain, Vietnam and China have been postponed.
It is understood that events in the Netherlands and Spain are likely to be called off while Monaco – scheduled for May 24 – is hanging in the balance.
Visas previously issued for those intending to travel to Azerbaijan – slated for June 7 – have currently been annulled.
“We wanted to provide some thoughts and perspectives from last week as we address the coronavirus pandemic,” Carey wrote in a letter issued on Tuesday.
“First and foremost, our priority is the health and safety of the fans, teams, and organisations of Formula 1, as well as wider society.
“We apologise to those fans affected by the cancellation in Australia, as well as the postponement of the other races to date.
“These decisions are being made by Formula 1, the FIA, and our local promoters in rapidly changing and evolving circumstances, but we believe they are the right and necessary ones. We also want to extend our thoughts to those already affected, including those in the Formula 1 family.
“We recognise everyone wants to know what comes next for Formula 1 in 2020. We cannot provide specific answers today given the fluidity of the situation.
“However, we plan to get the 2020 Championship season underway as soon as it’s safe to do so. We are engaging with experts and officials on a daily basis as we evaluate how we go forward in the next few months.
“We will keep you updated and provide details as soon as possible.
“We are grateful for your support and understanding and we wish you and your families all the best.”
Dear Mr. Carey,
Why don’t you man up, and apologize to the teams, the workers, mechanics – who are still there packing up, and the journalists and photographers you put at risk due to your own greed.
They never should have let the Italians land, and looking at how China and Bahrain reacted, you could have cancelled, instead of playing health authority, and came out looking like a hero vs. a total loser.
You should be fired immediately!
Safe financially or safe for health?