Monaco GP organisers dispel rumors of event's cancellation

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The Automobile Club of Monaco insists it F1 Grand Prix will take place as scheduled on May 23rd despite speculation over the event's cancellation for a second year running due to COVID-19 restrictions.

The pandemic has shown no tangible signs of abating in Europe since the start of the year, with lockdowns remaining in force in most countries across the continent.

Monaco's 2021 motorsport agenda is set to fill up the end of April and the month of May with Formula E, the Historic GP and F1 all taking place over four weeks in the Principality.

However, lead times associated with the street track's build-out mean that a definitive green light will likely be required by the end of February.

But the ACM remains committed, at least for now, to the dates of its trio of events.

"Despite the latest rumours circulating on certain websites and social media, the ACM can confirm that the #MonacoGP will take place from May 20th to 23rd, 2021," said the ACM on Twitter.

"The ACM also confirms the #GrandPrixMonacoHistorique (April 23rd-25th 2021) and the #MonacoEPrix (May 8th 2021)."

Read also: Monaco, Baku and Montreal races 'at risk' in 2021

Monaco isn't the only street race on F1's calendar rumored to be in jeopardy, with Baku and Montreal also at risk according to recent reports in the media.

But the Formula One Group, which recently postponed the season opening Australian GP to the back half of 2021, insists no further postponements or cancellations are currently being considered.

"We have set out the details of the revised 2021 calendar and there are no other changes," said a spokesperson for F1. "The suggestion street races will not take place [is] completely wrong."

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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.