THE 2020 Formula 1 season will finally begin on July 5 after the Austrian government granted permission for two races at Red Bull Ring.
A double-header behind closed doors is planned to ensure racing can get underway amid the coronavirus pandemic.
The Red Bull Ring’s remote location is thought to be a boost to hosting a safe raceCredit: Getty Images – Getty
On Saturday, Austrian health minister Rudi Anschober confirmed their green light for the “complete and professional plan” put forward by the sport’s bosses.
The Spielberg circuit is thought to be uniquely qualified for staging races in as safe an environment as possible.
Located in the mountainous region of central Austria, it is far removed from large urban areas and is owned by Red Bull, helping F1 to formulate how best to accommodate teams.
Once drivers and staff arrive, there are plans to maintain a biosphere bubble around the track with rigorous testing and safety protocols.
We can contain everyone within that environment and when there it is appealing to have another race the following week.”
Ross Brawn
F1 managing director Ross Brawn stated on the F1 Nation podcast earlier in the month: “One of the logistical challenges is getting everyone tested and cleared to enter the racing environment.
“Once we do that, it’s very attractive to keep everyone in that environment, within that biosphere that we want to create, for another race. Austria fits that bill very well.
“It has a local airport right next to the circuit, where people can charter planes into. It’s not too close to a metropolis. It has great infrastructure around it.
“We can contain everyone within that environment and once we are there it is appealing to have another race the following week.”
⚠️ Read our coronavirus live blog for the latest news & updates
F1 CEO Chase Carey has spoken optimistically of holding as many as 18 races in 2020 despite losing the Canadian, Australian, Dutch, French and Monaco Grands Prix to coronavirus restrictions.
Silverstone is tipped for a double-header in August despite worries over the UK Government’s plans to quarantine all new arrivals for two weeks.
Following a rearranged Hungarian GP, Silverstone is set for races August 2 and 9 before F1 completes its European schedule in Spain, Belgium and Italy.
CORONAVIRUS CRISIS – STAY IN THE KNOW
Don’t miss the latest news and figures – and essential advice for you and your family.
To receive The Sun’s Coronavirus newsletter in your inbox every tea time, sign up here.
To follow us on Facebook, simply ‘Like’ our Coronavirus page.
Get Britain’s best-selling newspaper delivered to your smartphone or tablet each day – find out more.
People in Austria welcome relaxing of coronavirus lockdown measures
Source: Motorsport - thesun.co.uk
