Bosses at Hockenheim have called on Formula 1 to make a decision soon on whether a 2020 German Grand Prix will go ahead.

The circuit has emerged as an alternative venue to be part of this season's schedule after seven races already cancelled their events due to the coronavirus and several more appear unlikely to take place.

Initially, Hockenheim was considered a potential replacement for the pair of British GP's, which will now take place in August.

Instead, the historic track has now been put on standby by F1 bosses should a date open up, but...

“We cannot keep our calendar on standby for several weeks waiting for a date for the GP," CEO Jorn Teske told German news agency Sid.

Also Read:

• Imola officially ready to host F1 again as AlphaTauri arrange a test
• F1 could use high-speed Bahrain 'Outer Circuit' for second 2020 race
• Ferrari set to host 1000th F1 race at Mugello - reports

Indeed, the Hockenheim circuit is facing pressure to be more economically beneficial for the local area by diversifying its activities.

So while an F1 race would occur behind closed doors, any deal with Liberty Media would have to see the event do more than break even.

On a more optimistic tone, a spokesperson for the Portimao circuit on Portugal's Algarve has confirmed talks are taking place to potentially hold the first Grand Prix in the country since 1996.

The track, which has only previously hosted an F1 test in 2008, emerged as a strong option due to their previous experience in hosting closed-door events.

And reports claim the circuit may also hold a doubleheader at the end of September/ early October as a replacement for the Russian GP in Sochi.

“We confirm that conversations have been going on with F1, in order to host a GP this year at our circuit,” the Portimao spokesperson said.

“We are fully committed in creating all the conditions that are needed for that to happen, and we believe our country and our circuit are the perfect venue for a new F1 race.

"The racetrack layout, the size of the circuit and its infrastructures, the fact that the Algarve has been almost Covid free, and the amazing weather and hotels, would surely create the perfect conditions for a great weekend.”