The scene depicted in our opening photo will be a thing of the past when this year’s Formula One season starts. As reported earlier, Formula One is keeping its fingers crossed that the 2020 season will begin in July at Spielberg, Austria. When, or if, the season did start, expect to see stands that are as empty as a politician’s promise. Yet, the big question remains — what next after the Austrian GP?
Last week, Silverstone chief Stuart Pringle announced that any British Grand Prix that would be held will take place behind closed doors. Silverstone are currently in talks with the British government and F1 bosses regarding the viability of hosting the race, which was set for July, at some stage during the campaign but without fans.
“I am extremely disappointed to tell you that we are unable to stage this year’s British Grand Prix in front of the fans at Silverstone,” said Pringle. “We have left this difficult decision for as long as possible, but it is abundantly clear given the current conditions in the country and the government requirements in place now and for the foreseeable future, that a Grand Prix under normal conditions is just not going to be possible.”
“Our obligations to protect the health and safety of everyone involved in preparing and delivering the event, our volunteer marshals and Race Makers, and of course, you, the amazing fans, means that this is the best, safest and only decision we could make,” adds Pringle.
Race officials from the Hungaroring in Budapest, Hungary have followed in Silverstone’s footsteps to announce that any possible Hungarian GP will be conducted without any fans. The Hungarian GP was scheduled to take place on August 2nd. However, the Hungarian government have banned any events that involve more than 500 spectators until August 15th.
Although race officials have announced that the races would be held behind closed doors, the actual status of the Grand Prix races has yet to be confirmed. F1 bosses are currently working on a revised calendar for 2020 since many countries have movement restrictions, making it tricky to host an international motorsports event.
Spectators who have bought tickets to the British Grand Prix and the Hungarian Grand Prix can transfer their tickets to 2021 or get a full refund.
When, of it, the Grand Prix season starts, it’s going to be a weird one where there will be no one waving banners at any of the race circuit's stands. One thing we can be sure, you can catch the Formula One race live on Astro Channel 815, from the safety and comforts of your home.