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Coronavirus forces Formula E to postpone Rome E-Prix

Due to the coronavirus threat, Formula E has been forced to postpone the electric series' sixth round scheduled to take place in Rome on April 4.

After the Sanya E-Prix in China which was cancelled last month, the race in the ancient city has also succumbed to the global virus outbreak. The Rome E-Prix is the first European motorsport event to be postponed since the start of the coronavirus crisis.

In Europe, Italy is the country worst hit by the epidemic, with a cluster of 3,800 cases erupting in the northern part of the country and leading to a death toll of 48.

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Italy has adopted drastic measures in response to the coronavirus outbreak in Europe, closing schools and universities until at least March 15, and ordering all sporting events to take place behind closed doors.

Formula E released on Friday the following statement:

"As a consequence of the ongoing health emergency in Italy and according to the provisions set out in the ministerial decree concerning measures to counteract and contain the spread of COVID-19 in the country - which includes sporting events with large crowds and spectators in close proximity - it will no longer be possible to stage the Rome E-Prix on April 4, 2020.

"Formula E, in agreement with the relevant authorities in Rome, EUR S.p.A and together with the FIA and Automobile Club d'Italia (ACI), will work closely with championship partners and stakeholders in order to assess and review alternative options to postpone the Rome E-Prix to a later date once restrictions have been lifted.

"All ticket holders will be contacted through the appropriate channels in the coming days."

Unfortunately, Formula E's upcoming spring schedule doesn't bide well for the series as the next two events are to be held in Seoul, South Korea and in Jakarta, Indonesia, two countries close to China where the virus initiated its outbreak.

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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.