Formula 1’s new 2020 calendar is starting to take shape with Silverstone, Hockenheim and Spa all set to feature, according to different reports.
After the first 10 Grands Prix were cancelled or postponed due to the coronavirus, Austria is pushing ahead with plans to hold to races, the first on July 5 with another a week later.
Two weeks later, Silverstone is expected to do the same on July 26 and August 2, however, there was fresh uncertainty cast over the British circuit after the BBC claimed there was disagreement over compensation.
Well now the UK broadcaster is claiming the gap has been closed and the two races will go ahead on those dates.
“I am happy to confirm that Silverstone and Formula 1 have reached an agreement to organise two races without an audience this summer,” Silverstone boss Stuart Pringle declared.
“However, these races will be subject to government approval, as our priority is the safety of all involved and strict compliance with the Covid-19 regulations”.
“I want to thank all our fans for their support and assure them that we are determined to do everything in our power to get Formula 1 on track this summer.”
An F1 spokesperson though wouldn’t confirm Pringle’s comments, saying: “We will continue talks with Silverstone and other promoters on a revised calendar for 2020.”
Elsewhere, German publication Bild is claiming Hockenheim will also be on the revised calendar and could host two races if needed.
That scenario now appears less likely after Silverstone’s announcement, but the circuit is still being touted for an August date along with the Spanish GP in Barcelona.
Finally, on a positive note, the Belgian GP at Spa has also got the go-ahead for a closed-door event on August 30.
The country recently enforced a ban on public events until the day after on September 1 but the government has said the race can take place without fans, allowing the famed venue to start talks with Liberty over money.
One disappointing development, however, is the Singapore GP is now expected not to take place this year while the Dutch and Canadian GP’s will not be rescheduled either.
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