JAPANESE GRAND PRIX CANCELLED

For the second year in a row, the Japanese Grand Prix won’t be taking place. The race at the Skukuza track was meant to take place on 10 October but was cancelled due to the “ongoing complexities” of Covid-19.

F1 and the local promoters met for discussions and then made the decision to cancel the race. Their decision was based on the rising number of Covid-19 cases.

Only last month the Australian Grand Prix, which was meant to take place in November, was cancelled due to the same reason.

It is expected that F1 will be releasing a finalised 2021 calendar soon.

“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”, the organising body said in a statement.

While the other countries that could possibly end up hosting a last-minute race haven’t been announced, some believe that those countries who have hosted a race earlier this year already might get the opportunity to host another race.

It’s a sad day for F1 fans in Japan, but an even sadder day for Honda, the engine suppliers of the Red Bull team. Red Bull is currently contending for the championship.

Sky Sports reports that the Japanese manufacturer is leaving F1 at the end of this season and had hoped to enjoy one final race weekend at their own circuit.

Image credit: Eurosport