Formula 1 Brings Forward Summer Break In Response To Coronavirus

Formula 1 has brought forward the summer shutdowns in response to the extent of the coronavirus outbreak. The break, which is usually two weeks in August when the teams have to cease the race activity for a fortnight, has been moved to March and April.

Though the shutdown usually lasts two weeks, the revised break will this year extend to 21 days.

The FIA claimed in light of effects of the coronavirus affecting the FIA Formula One championship events; the World Motor Sport Council has approved a change to the 2020 FIA Formula 1 Sporting Regulations meaning the summer shutdown moves from July and August to March and April.

Formula 1 also postponed the Dutch, Spanish and Monaco Grand Prix events as a precautionary measure considering the virus escalations. The news came after the cancellation of the season-opening Australian Grand Prix this past week.

The Dutch Grand Prix was making a return to the calendar for the first time since 1985, and the venue was Zandvoort on May 1 to 3. The Spanish race then followed a week later, and the Monaco Grand Prix was to take place on May 21.

A statement from the FIA, Formula 1 and the promoters read they have taken necessary precautions to make sure the health and safety of the traveling staff and fans is still the primary concern.

All competitors in the sport are expected to observe a shutdown of 21 consecutive days in March and April. The change was supported by the F1 Strategy Group as well as the F1 Commission.

Red Bull has complied, saying they supported the decision to move the shutdown. They released a statement saying they plan to shut down as of March 27 for three weeks. Unfortunately, because of the changing nature of the pandemic, there could be some flexibility concerning the given dates.

The team said they would be taking other precautions for the protection of their workforce as well. They agree with the measures being taken for the reduction of the risk of transmission, and they will support race postponement as needed.

Alfa Romeo announced as well that they would be shutting down between March 23 and April 13. Ferrari has also confirmed they will be closing down today up to April 18.

The idea behind the plan is to keep the costs under control. It is especially at a time when the teams have to deal with reduced overall revenue considering the expected lower number of races.