Formula 1 has confirmed the Japanese Grand Prix has been cancelled for a second consecutive year due to “ongoing complexities” relating to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Suzuka was scheduled to host the event on October 10 as part of a flyaway triple-header with Russia and Turkey.
A decision over whether the race could run as planned was expected this month following the Olympic Games being held in Tokyo.
There had been plans to create a strict biosphere amid the rise in COVID-19 cases in Japan, including charter flights for all personnel and limits on travel.
But on Wednesday it was announced the race would not be going ahead, with F1 chiefs now considering further changes to the calendar that will be announced in due course.
A statement from Formula 1 read: “Following ongoing discussions with the promoter and authorities in Japan the decision has been taken by the Japanese government to cancel the race this season due to ongoing complexities of the pandemic in the country.
“Formula 1 is now working on the details of the revised calendar and will announce the final details in the coming weeks.
“Formula 1 has proven this year, and in 2020, that we can adapt and find solutions to the ongoing uncertainties and is excited by the level of interest in locations to host Formula 1 events this year and beyond.”
Japan has become the fourth event to be cancelled in 2021 following Australia, Canada and Singapore.
F1 has several options on the table as it prepares to face further scheduling issues in the second half of the season.
Brazil, Mexico and Turkey all remain on the UK’s red list, which would result in teams having to follow the 10-day quarantine guidelines.
A second race in Bahrain and Austin are possible alternatives, with Qatar also understood to be a venue under consideration.
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