F1 season to start in Bahrain after Australian Grand Prix postponed
- by Cecil Buchanan
- in Sports
- — Jan 13, 2021
"The Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix is one of the great events in the world and we'll make sure it can be run safely and successfully in November".
F1 is expecting fans to return to the races this season after most races were held behind closed doors or in front of severely restricted numbers a year ago.
The French driver, who does not have an F1 drive for 2021, crashed his Haas into the barriers at 140mph before the vehicle burst into flames.
When is the Bahrain Grand Prix?
The season will instead start with the Bahrain Grand Prix less than four months after the Sakhir venue held two races as part of the 2020 season.
More news: Walmart to create fintech startup with Ribbit CapitalThe season will now start in Bahrain on March 28.
"It has been a busy start to the year at Formula 1 and we are pleased to confirm that the number of races planned for the season remains unchanged", said Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1 said in a statement.
"The global pandemic has not yet allowed life to return to normal, but we showed in 2020 that we can race safely as the first worldwide sport to return and we have the experience and plans in place to deliver on our season".
F1 has also announced the postponement of the Chinese Grand Prix, which was meant to take place on 11 April as the third round of the season. [INSIGHT]Valtteri Bottas contract: How much does the Mercedes driver earn?
Formula 1 said ongoing travel restrictions meant the Chinese Grand Prix would not take place on its planned date of April 18, however discussions were being held to reschedule the race later in the season if possible.
More news: Joe Manchin: 'Ill-advised' to impeach Trump nowFormula One said it expected fans to return to the grandstands and the exclusive Paddock Club during the 2021 season after most races were held behind closed doors previous year.
F1 bosses said they will "continue to work closely with our promoters and partners to monitor the ongoing Covid-19 situation" and expect spectators to return to the trackside at some point during the 2021 season.
Both the Australian and Chinese races were cancelled past year as the pandemic ripped up the calendar, with the season reduced to 17 grands prix in Europe and the Middle East. Last year's race in Australia was cancelled after one team member tested positive for the coronavirus.
The sport commendably went on to navigate a 17-round season in just 23 weeks, with Hamilton clinching a record-equalling seventh world championship.
"The decision to keep Australia on the calendar underlines how important our race is to the Formula 1 Championship".
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