Formula 1 says it has a “number of options” to replace the Australian Grand Prix following the announcement the event has been cancelled for a second year running.
Melbourne had already been forced to postpone the race until November when it became clear it would not be possible to hold the event at the start of the season.
Australia was rescheduled to host the 21st round on the 2021 calendar, but will now not take place due to restrictions and logistical challenges relating to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Albert Park was among several races set to be staged later in the year that remained doubtful of going ahead, with race organisers now focused on working with F1 to prepare for next year’s event.
A statement issued by F1 said they “are confident we can deliver a 23-race season in 2021 and we have a number of options to take forward to replace the place left vacant by the Australian Grand Prix.
“We will be working through the details of those options in the coming weeks and will provide further updates once those discussions are concluded.”
The Albert Park circuit was undergoing a revamp of its layout – that was set to be completed in time for the event – in a bid to improve overtaking opportunities.
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali said while he was disappointed to not have Australia on this year’s schedule, he remains confident it can deliver a 23-round championship.
“While it is disappointing we won’t be racing in Australia this season, we are confident we can deliver a 23 race season in 2021 and we have a number of options to take forward to replace the place left vacant by the Australian Grand Prix,” Domenicali said.
“We will be working through the details of those options in the coming weeks and will provide further updates once those discussions are concluded.”
McLaren’s Daniel Ricciardo said he “understands the reasons” behind the cancelation and hopes to have the opportunity to race in front of his home crowd in 2022.
“It’s a huge disappointment for all of the drivers that we won’t be coming down to Australia in November, but we understand the reasons,” said Ricciardo.
“For me personally, I can’t wait to have the chance to race at home again, and it’ll be even sweeter when we do because it’s been so long. Fingers crossed things can change for 2022 and we get to see the awesome fans at Albert Park again and put on a good show for them.”
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