F1 CEO Chase Carey Pens Open Letter To Formula 1 Fans

Former Formula 1 CEO Chase Carey penned a letter to all Formula 1 fans in the wake of the outbreak and the effect it has had on a global level.

The opening round of the new season was officially called off 90 minutes before the first practice session was going to take place in Melbourne.

F1 and the governing boy, the FIA, were criticized because they did not communicate the status of the race even after thousands of fans had already arrived at Albert Park venue on Friday morning.

Some had gone to the extent of purchasing tickets for the subsequent three races, which were for Vietnam, Bahrain, and China, even though they were postponed.

In the letter, Carey claimed their priority was the health and safety of the teams, fans, and the organizations that make up Formula 1.

He, however, expressed his apologies to fans affected by the cancellation in Australia and the postponement of other races.

Decisions are being made by the FIA and the Formula 1 organizations, according to the evolving situation. The belief is they are currently necessary.

The Dutch and the Spanish Grand Prix races scheduled to take place during May are going to be canceled, though confirmation on this matter is expected later during the week.

He did reassure they plan to get the 2020 championship season underway as soon as it is safe to do so. They are also consulting officials and experts as they evaluate the best way to go forward during the coming months.

Cases of the virus are gradually increasing in other parts of the world as well as the motorsport community. It was confirmed a second member of the sports traveling service with Pirelli had also been diagnosed with the virus.

Thankfully though, the McLaren team member that was diagnosed from the virus is recovering well after undergoing treatment in Melbourne. For the majority of individuals, the virus causes mild or moderate symptoms at best such as fever and a cough.

However, when it comes to the older generation, such as people with existing health issues, it led to pneumonia.

Carey did admit they recognize everyone would like to know what comes next for the sport in 2020. They are not able to provide specific answers to their questions, given the fluidity of the situation.

Current estimates for the season maintain it may begin in June. If that is the case, it will be constrained due to the lesser number of races.