Is Bahrain set to open 2021 season with double-header?

Formula 1's modified 2021 calendar could be set for more disruption, and changes that could see teams start the season with another double-header in Bahrain.

The global coronavirus crisis that continues to linger remains a challenge for many nations, with stringent travel restrictions and lockdowns still the norm.

Grand Prix racing's original packed to the brim 23-race schedule has already undergone a few changes. The season-opening Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne has been pushed back to the back-half of the season while the postponed Chinese Grand Prix is likely to be cancelled altogether.

Imola has been slotted in as the second round of the F1 world championship while Portimão is expected to fill the April 25 open date.

However, with COVID-19 cases still trending higher in Portugal in the wake of a third wave of infections, the country's national health service is overwhelmed, while the mainland lockdown has so far failed to reduce the number of cases.

Portimão's potential inability to host a race in April is forcing a rethink for F1. According to Italy's La Gazzetta dello Sport, another rejuggling of the schedule could lead to Bahrain hosting the first two rounds of the championship, on March 28 and April 4, while Imola could be pushed back to April 25 to allow teams to regroup after Bahrain.

Imola race to be called ‘Made in Italy and Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix’ in 2021

Despite the Automobile Club de Monaco's reassurances, the principality's showcase event is also at risk of a cancellation for the second year running.

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, and the same logistical constraints will apply to Baku and Montreal in June.

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

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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.