F1 targets Bahrain Grand Prix 2020 in December

TDT | Manama

The postponed Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2020 could take place in December later this year, according to Formula 1 CEO Chase Carey. In a statement published yesterday on formula1.com, Carey provided an update on the latest developments on the 2020 Formula 1 calendar, and it targets Bahrain’s race as the penultimate round of a season that could include 15 to 18 races.

“We are now increasingly confident with the progress of our plans to begin our season this summer,” said Carey in the statement. “We’re targeting a start to racing in Europe through July, August and beginning of September, with the first race taking place in Austria on 3-5 July weekend.

“September, October and November, would see us race in Eurasia, Asia and the Americas, finishing the season in the Gulf in December with Bahrain before the traditional finale in Abu Dhabi, having completed between 15-18 races.

“We will publish our finalised calendar as soon as we possibly can.” This year’s Bahrain Grand Prix was originally scheduled to be held on March 22, but due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, it had to be rescheduled.

It is one of 10 races, as of yesterday, either postponed or cancelled because of COVID-19. The other races affected were in Australia, Vietnam, China, the Netherlands, Spain, Monaco, Azerbaijan, Canada and France. The French Grand Prix was officially cancelled yesterday by organisers.

“We expect the early races to be without fans but hope fans will be part of our events as we move further into the schedule,” the statement continued. “We still have to work out many issues like the procedures for the teams and our other partners to enter and operate in each country.

“The health and safety of all involved will continue to be priority one and we will only go forward if we are confident we have reliable procedures to address both risks and possible issues.” The full statement can be read at formula1.com.