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FIA approves extension of factory shutdown for F1 teams

The FIA's World Motor Sport Council has approved a four-week extension of the sport's current shutdown period, with most teams' factories remaining closed until the end of May.

Formula 1 brought forward its mandatory summer break to take advantage of the COVID-19 lockdown measures implemented in the UK and in Italy where all F1 outfits are based and for the purpose of freeing up the month of August to allow for the inclusion of postponed races during the period.

The initial three-week shutdown measure - which was extended to 35 days - was implemented in March on different dates by teams.

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The most recent extension to 63 consecutive days will therefore see teams exit the break at different times, with a few factories normally firing back up in early June. But the FIA has now authorised teams to allow ten members of their staff to start work remotely 10 days before the end of the extended lockdown.

"All competitors must now observe a shutdown period increased from 35 to 63 consecutive days during the months of March, April, May and/or June," said the FIA in a statement released on Tuesday.

"50 days after the start of their shutdown period, upon application by a competitor, and subject to the prior written approval of the FIA, each competitor may use the services of a maximum of ten personnel to work remotely on long lead time projects."

As a reminder, the shutdown also includes the F1 manufacturers' engine departments, although the period is shorter.

"The shutdown period for Power Unit manufacturers has been extended from 35 to 49 consecutive days during the months of March, April, May and/or June.

"36 days after the start of their shutdown period, upon application by a Power Unit manufacturer, and subject to the prior written approval of the FIA, each Power Unit manufacturer may use the services of a maximum of ten personnel to work remotely on long lead time projects."

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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.