The Australian Grand Prix has been cancelled for the second year in a row, with restrictions on travel and logistics making it impossible for the event to be held.
Albert Park Circuit was planned to host the race in late November, following a shift from March. That was in contention with the plans of the Australian government for racers to quarantine upon entry to the country, and for them to be placed in a bubble. But, the race has now been cancelled altogether.
Formula One chief executive officer Stefano Domenicali said: ‘While it is disappointing we won’t be racing in Australia this season, we are confident we can deliver a 23-race season in 2021 and we have a number of options to take forward to replace the place left vacant by the Australian Grand Prix.’
In a statement, AGPC chairman Paul Little said: ‘We’re deeply disappointed that for a second consecutive year, both MotoGP and Formula One fans won’t be able to see the world’s best riders and drivers compete at the wonderful Phillip Island and Albert Park Grand Prix Circuits.’
‘We appreciate the challenge Australia faces with current international travel restrictions and the importance of vaccinations.”We will be working through the details of those options in the coming weeks and will provide further updates once those discussions are concluded.’
Max Verstappen currently leads the Formula 1 driver rankings for 2021 after winning the Austria grand prix held over the last weekend.