Azerbaijan Grand Prix postponed due to coronavirus

The Azerbaijan Grand Prix has become the latest race to be pulled from Formula One’s coronavirus-hit schedule.

Formula One’s authorities had earmarked the 7 June as a potential start date for the new season after the opening seven grands prix were called off.

But the event – which takes place on the streets of Azerbaijan’s capital Baku – has now been postponed because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Baku City Circuit (BCC) has today taken the decision to postpone the Formula One Azerbaijan Grand Prix 2020 due to take place on 7 June,” read a statement from race organisers.

“BCC’s primary concern throughout has been the health and wellbeing of the Azerbaijani people as well as all visiting F1 fans, staff and championship participants.”

Baku City Circuit intends to monitor the coronavirus situation with a view to announcing a new race date later in the 2020 season.

The earliest the F1 campaign can now start is at Montreal’s Circuit Gilles Villeneuve on 14 June although this could also be under threat.

“The thoughts of everyone at Baku City Circuit during this challenging and unprecedented situation go out to all those directly and indirectly affected by the coronavirus pandemic,” continued the statement.

“We wish to thank all our supporters, customers and partners for your understanding and look forward to welcoming you back to Baku later in the year.”