F1 taking 'scientific approach' to protect sport against COVID-19

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Formula 1 says it is taking a 'scientific approach', in consultation with official health authorities, to assess risks and protect its community against the coronavirus outbreak.

In an update long awaited by the media and fans on the global COVID-19 crisis as it relates to the Formula 1 World Championship, F1 insisted "the health and safety of the F1 fans, family and wider communities is paramount".

F1 also highlighted the protective measures the sport and promoters will enforce at upcoming races to minimize disruption and risks of contagion of the coronvirus.

"Due to the fluid nature of the virus, F1 will continue to take a scientific approach to the situation, acting on daily advice from the official health authorities and the advice or measures each host promoter may enact," F1 said in a statement published on its official website.

"F1 has itself implemented a number of measures based upon advice from Public Health England, including the suspension of all non-essential travel.

"Dedicated teams of experts will be deployed at airports, transit points and at circuits to safeguard personnel, focused on the diagnosis, management and extraction of suspected cases.

"Bespoke quarantine points are being installed by promoters for any suspected cases."

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F1 confirmed that Bahrain organizers, which will hold its March 22 race behind closed doors, will "implement screening procedures on entry and specialist medical facilities onsite, as well as enhanced sanitation at the circuit."

Unusually, Formula 1 offered no update on the current situation in Vietnam, a country where new cases of just emerged.

It repeated however that it remained "in constant dialogue with promoters, governmental bodies and expert health authorities to ensure the safeguarding of everyone inside and around the sport".

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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.