Australian Grand Prix cancelled in 2021
Formula One has announced that the Australian Grand Prix, which was scheduled for November 19-21 at Albert Park in Melbourne, will not take place in 2021.
The Australian Grand Prix was moved from its original date in March and was due to take place from 19-21 November but has been called off for the second year in a row due to tight restrictions and border controls in Australia.
The MotoGP race, scheduled for 24 Octobe, has also been called off.
Paul Little, Chairman of the Australian Grand Prix Corporation, said: “We’re deeply disappointed that for a second consecutive year, both MotoGP™ and Formula 1 fans won’t be able to see the world’s best riders and drivers compete at the wonderful Phillip Island and Albert Park Grand Prix Circuits.”
“We appreciate the challenge Australia faces with current international travel restrictions and the importance of vaccinations.”
“I would like to reassure our motivated and professional staff, suppliers and partners, as well as the Victorian tourism and major events community that we will work tirelessly to deliver these iconic events in 2022.”
We regret to announce the #AusGP will drop from the 2021 calendar
— Formula 1 (@F1) July 6, 2021
We have a number of options to fill the place left vacant - which will be worked through in the coming weeks - but we are all sad to miss the fans in Australia this year#F1 pic.twitter.com/VPQmKDwYDW
Formula One is confident that it can stick to its original schedule, which incorporates 23 races, and has already started to search for alternative venues.
Commenting on the announcement, Formula One Chairman and President Stefano Domenicali said: “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.
„We will be working through the details of those options in the coming weeks and will provide further updates once those discussions are concluded.”
Australian Formula 1 McLaren driver Daniel Ricciardo commented: "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.”
"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,” the Perth-born said.
