Montreal officially confirms Canadian GP postponement

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As expected, organisers for the Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal have confirmed the postponement of the June 12-14 event.

Montreal is the ninth round of the 2020 F1 world championship to fall victim to the global coronavirus pandemic and its impact on the sport's calendar.

The race's cancellation was widely expected and now tentatively puts the starting blocks for the 2020 season over at Paul Ricard in France on June 28.

"This postponement was not a decision that was taken lightly or easily," read statement from Canada's organisers.

"Over the past month, we have been in constant communication with Formula 1 and representatives from the city of Montréal, Tourism Montreal and both provincial and federal governments.

"We have heard the directives issued by public health officials and as a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic are following the expert guidance provided by the authorities.

"Our thoughts and most sincere thanks go to the men and women working tirelessly to keep us healthy, safe and fed during these uncertain times."

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Francois Dumontier, the CEO of the Canadian Grand Prix, added: "I am proud to see how such wonderful initiatives and technical advancements stemming from Formula 1 are being applied in a time of crisis.

"At the moment it is crucial that all of our energies be put together to overcome COVID-19. We will welcome you with open arms t Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve as soon as it is safe to do so."

The Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in Montreal is a semi-permanent track whose logistics associated with the Grand Prix obviously require a fair amount of work beforehand, thus the requirement to validate the race's date a good two months in advance.

"We have been working closely with our friends at the Canadian Grand Prix over the past few weeks and support them in taking this necessary decision to ensure the safety of fans and the F1 community," said F1 boss Chase Carey.

"We always look forward to travelling to the incredible city of Montreal and while we will all have to wait a bit longer, we will put on a great show when we arrive later this year."

Tickets for the 2020 Canadian Grand Prix will remain valid for the postponed race, and holders will be informed of the new date of the event as soon as it's confirmed by the organisers.

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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.