The Japanese GP is cancelled for the current season.
The decision comes on the heels of the bad COVID-19 situation the country, and the spread of the virus there. This means that the calendar will have to face yet another reshuffle. This season has already seen some changes to the calendar, and this is the latest revision to it.
The race was supposed to be held on October 10 at the Suzuka circuit. It was scheduled to take place after the Olympic and Paralympic Games. However, Japan has seen a spike in COVID-19 cases in recent months. Emergency has been announced in some parts of the country.
A statement from Formula 1 read, “Following ongoing discussions with the promoter and authorities in Japan the decision has been taken by the Japanese government to cancel the race this season due to ongoing complexities of the pandemic in the country.
“Formula 1 is now working on the details of the revised calendar and will announce the final details in the coming weeks.
“Formula 1 has proven this year, and in 2020, that we can adapt and find solutions to the ongoing uncertainties and is excited by the level of interest in locations to host Formula 1 events this year and beyond.”
New plans
F1’s original schedule for the 2021 season had 23 races planned out. However, COVID-19 has been a major thorn in the side of the sport, and it has already led to new plans being drawn up. With various regions facing various levels of the pandemic, and in various waves, the chances of the season having 21 or more races in it is not certain anymore.
However, F1 could be looking at alternatives. They have already confirmed the Dutch Grand Prix for this season. If needed, they may look to the Middle East to host a race or two to compensate for the unforeseen turn of events.
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