Formula 1’s 2020 season has been delayed again after the Azerbaijan Grand Prix became the latest race to be postponed due to the coronavirus on Monday.
So far the Eurasian nation has seen one of the lowest outbreaks among the 22 F1 hosting countries, with only 65 cases of the Covid-19 illness with one death confirmed.
But, as the coronavirus pandemic continues to worsen worldwide, local authorities have imposed travel restrictions into the country, including the cancellation of visas.
For that reason, race organisers, in co-ordination with F1, have made the decision to delay the race and seek a new date.
“In coming to this conclusion, Baku City Circuit’s primary concern throughout has been the health and well-being of the Azerbaijani people as well as all visiting F1 fans, staff and championship participants,” a statement read.
“BCC shares its fans disappointment at not being able to experience the pinnacle of motorsport race through the streets of Baku this June. To that end, we will continue to work closely with Formula 1, the FIA and the Government of the Azerbaijan Republic to monitor the situation with a view to announcing a new race date later in the 2020 season.
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“All tickets for the FORMULA 1 AZERBAIJAN GRAND PRIX 2020 will continue to be valid, without any additional formality. As soon as the new date of the Grand Prix is confirmed, all spectators will be informed accordingly about the available options, both for those who have purchased their tickets through the Baku City Circuit’s website (www.bakucitycircuit.com) and through other channels.
“The thoughts of everyone at Baku City Circuit during this challenging and unprecedented situation go out to all those directly and indirectly affected by the coronavirus pandemic.
“We wish to thank all our supporters, customers and partners for your understanding and look forward to welcoming you back to Baku later in the year for more unpredictable, thrilling racing action at the Home of the Street Fighters.
“In the meantime, we ask you to stay safe and stay at home if you can.”
Before the postponement, the street race in Baku, originally scheduled on June 7, had become the defacto season opener after the Dutch, Spanish and Monaco GP’s were all called off last week.
Now, the Canadian GP is the first active race on June 14, though it is being speculated the cancellation of that event in Montreal could be announced in the coming days.