F1 News, Reports and Race Results

Is the China GP in jeopardy following Coronavirus outbreak?

A potential suspension of all motorsport events in China until April following the Coronavirus outbreak could threaten this year's Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai.

The novel virus detected in the Chinese city of Wuhan in December has so far claimed 41 lives and infected over 1,300 Chinses citizens, forcing authorities to put 18 cities and 56 million people under lockdown!

The World Health Organisation is scrambling to understand and contain the virus which causes pneumonia-like illness.

The  first few cases of Coronavirus have been reported in Europe and in the US, and China has implemented a travel ban while the country's capital, Beijing, has canceled fairs and festivals, any events that generate large gatherings where the airborne virus could spread.

China's General Administration of Sport issued on Thursday a directive that cancels all sporting activities until April.

It's unclear however if the directive extends to all motorsport events scheduled to take place in China during the caution window.

If so, the decision would prevent the organization of the Chinese round of the Formula E championship which is set to take place on the island of Hainan in Sanya on March 21.

Formula 1 and the FIA have yet to address the concerns, but should the current rate of infection increase it would not bode well for the Chinese Grand Prix.

And should China eventually order the cancellation of the event, the density of this year's 22-race calendar would make it very difficult to reschedule the round at some time later in the season.

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.

Recent Posts

F1i's Driver Ratings for the 2024 São Paulo GP

Alexander Albon, Williams (Did Not Start): 5.5/10 Alex Albon is definitely going through something of…

2 hours ago

Jos Verstappen rips British media after Brazilian Max fest

Jos Verstappen wasted no time after his son spectacular win at the São Paulo Grand…

3 hours ago

Leclerc left with ‘mixed feelings’ after disappointing Sao Paulo GP

Charles Leclerc's weekend in Sao Paulo was unfortunately a stark contrast to Ferrari's recent triumphs…

5 hours ago

Back when Kimi knew exactly what he was doing

Twelve years ago on this day, Kimi Raikkonen took a popular win at the 2012…

7 hours ago

Mercedes fined for starting grid tyre pressure infringement

The Mercedes team was hit with a fine by the FIA after Sunday’s Sao Paulo…

7 hours ago

Hamilton’s woes deepen after battling ‘plank of wood’ car in Brazil

Despite his best efforts, a lowly tenth-place finish was as good as it got for…

9 hours ago