F1 | The 2021 Japanese Grand Prix has been called off because of the pandemic
Disappointment occurs for a second consecutive year for the incredible Japanese fans as the Asian race is cancelled once again.
For a second straight year, the Japanese Grand Prix at the famous Suzuka circuit [joining Australia and Canada] has been called off thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Despite the country holding the Olympic Games recently and the Paralympic Games, which starts next Tuesday, there is currently a state of emergency in the capital Tokyo as the virus surges in the Far East country.
It’s a hammer blow for Honda who would have wanted a final home race before their exit from Formula 1 at the end of 2021, as well as disappointment for Yuki Tsunoda who was set to race in his home country during his rookie season.
To our amazing Japanese fans, we are sad we can't race with you this year. We can't wait to see you again in 2022
— Formula 1 (@F1) August 18, 2021
日本の素晴らしいファンのみなさんへ
残念ながら、今年は日本でレースを行うことができなくなりました。2022年にみなさんにお会いすることを楽しみにしています。 pic.twitter.com/bQa6IAnznh
"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," said Formula 1 in a statement.
"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."
While we’re not racing in Japan this year…
— Formula 1 (@F1) August 18, 2021
We can’t wait to put on a show for the Japanese fans in 2022!
2022年にはまた日本のファンのみなさんのためにレースを開催できることを楽しみにしています！#Japanese GP 🇯🇵 #F1 pic.twitter.com/KDLxQ6VbFE
As for the rest of 2021, Turkey, Mexico and Brazil are all currently on the United Kingdom's red list, meaning UK-based employees will need to quarantine for 10 full days in a managed quarantine hotel after returning from those venues, if they go ahead.
A planned double-header at the Circuit of The Americas is on the cards, although cases in Austin are high. Texas Governor Greg Abbott confirmed he tested positive for the virus last night.
If more races do drop off the calendar, Qatar could make its F1 debut towards the end of the 2021 campaign, with another race in Bahrain a strong possibility as well. It could mean the last four races of the year take place in the Middle East, as Saudi Arabia and Abu Dhabi are already confirmed for the final two rounds.
