FORMULA 1 chiefs insist this weekend’s Australian Grand Prix will go ahead with fans in attendance amid the coronavirus outbreak – although Miley Cyrus has cancelled her gig in Melbourne.
The pop singer cited the “global health crisis” in postponing this Friday’s show in aid of the region’s bushfire victims.
Cyrus will not travel to Australia due to “local government advice”Credit: Reuters
Italian team Ferrari are among those already in the city for the weekend’s raceCredit: AFP or licensors
Thousands of fans were due to pour into Melbourne’s Lakeside Stadium on the eve of the new F1 season.
And a mega crowd topping 300,000 is expected in the city for the race weekend.
Organisers insist there is “no evidence of community transmission in Victoria” as the sport takes measures to combat the virus spreading.
After the Chinese GP was postponed indefinitely, a decision was made to hold the Bahrain race behind closed doors.
Fears have been voiced over Italy-based teams Ferrari and Alpha Tauri but race boss Andrew Westacott has confirmed that they are already on their way to Australia with team members “carefully screened”.
When asked by radio station SEN if spectators could be barred, Westacott replied: “Not a chance.
“When you look at 86,000 at the MCG last night – we’ve got to go around things sensibly and keep moving on through life while taking the necessary precautions.
“The interesting thing is the Italian freight. The Alpha Tauri cars and the Ferrari cars are on their way as we speak, so it’s really good.
“The key personnel are on their planes. We’re expecting them in the next 12 to 24 hours.”
When cancelling her show, American popstar Cyrus, 27, stated the decision was made on local government advice.
The ‘Wrecking Ball’ crooner tweeted: “Due to the recommendations of local, state, federal and international government authorities, including the Center for Disease Control, to reduce potential health risks in response to the current global health crisis, we are no longer travelling to Australia for the show.
“I am so disappointed to not be there, but I have to do what is right to protect the health and safety of my band and crew.
“I will still be making a donation to help the victims of the Australian bush fire. I’m sorry to miss everyone in Australia, but I will be back soon.”
Italian PM announces the WHOLE of Italy is now on lockdown in response to coronavirus outbreak
Source: Motorsport - thesun.co.uk
