SPORTS
Australian FI Grand Prix in Melbourne postponed until November because of coronavirus
Baku, January 13, AZERTAC
The Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix has been postponed until November, with race organisers saying the coronavirus pandemic meant "it is not feasible" to hold the race in March, according to ABC News.
The race, held in Melbourne's Albert Park Circuit, will be contested on November 21, subject to World Motor Sport Council approval.
It is the second consecutive year the Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix has been impacted by COVID-19, with last year's race cancelled at the last minute in March because of coronavirus.
"The ongoing situation regarding COVID-19 has meant it is not feasible to begin the season in Melbourne," Formula 1 said in a statement.
"But the good news is that the Australian Grand Prix will now take place from the 18th to the 21st November following an agreement between Formula 1 and the Australian authorities that shows the importance of the race in Australia to Formula 1 and our partners in Melbourne."
The Australian Grand Prix has traditionally been the season-opening race of the Formula 1 season.
The change in timeslot means it will be the 21st of the season's 23 races.
The 2021 season will now begin a week later than planned, with the Bahrain Grand Prix scheduled for March 28.