As ever-stricter measures from governments and organisations across the globe come into force to limit the spread of Covid-19, multiple events have been either postponed or cancelled outright. Sad news for motorsport enthusiasts because that includes many of our favourite annual motorsports events. They are:
1. The 24 Hours Of Le Mans
One of the biggest motorsport events of the year is the Le Mans 24 Hours. This year’s race, which was supposed to take place on the 13 to 14 June, might be postponed to the 19-20 September. The organisers decided to play it safe; ACO president Pierre Fillon said: “First and foremost, I urge everyone to avoid putting themselves, their loved ones and others at risk. The most important thing today is to curtail the spread of this virus. Our thoughts go out to medical staff working relentlessly for the sake of us all…The postponement of the 24 Hours of Le Mans means making changes to the WEC and ELMS calendars and we shall announce the new dates shortly. The safety and quality of our events will not be compromised.”
2. The 2020 Isle Of Man TT
The latest high-profile motorsport casualty is the Isle of Man TT. Initially due to take place from 30 May to 13 June, the plug has now been pulled. In a statement, Isle of Man Minister for Enterprise, Laurence Skelly, said: “The decision also aims to provide reassurance for our residents and healthcare professionals that the health and well-being of the Isle of Man’s residents is the single biggest priority and focus of this Government.”
3. Moto GP
The 2020 Moto GP season was scheduled to begin on 8 March, but the organiser cancelled the first race in Qatar and postponed the races in Thailand, USA and Argentina.
4. Formula 1
It was a little bit surprising that the race was all set to go ahead as planned, even though much of the rest of the world has been cancelling or rescheduling major events. Even Lewis Hamilton said that he was shocked to even be in the paddock. Finally, the organisers found some common sense and cancelled the season-opening Australian Grand Prix, and subsequently announced postponements of the following races scheduled in Bahrain, Vietnam, China, Netherlands and Spain. The one in Monaco, scheduled for end-May, has been cancelled. Whether the one in Azerbaijan, scheduled for early June, will go on will depend on whether the spread of the virus has finally been halted.
