F1 Announces Cancellation of 2021 Turkish Grand Prix

Formula One has announced the cancellation of the 2021 Turkish Grand Prix, which was due to take place across 11-13 June 2021. 

This decision has been taken in light of the country re-entering lockdown following a rise in Coronavirus cases, which consequently saw the UEFA Champions League switch their Grand Final to Porto, Portugal, highlighting the impact of these restrictions.

Formula One bosses have therefore revised their race calendar with the French Grand Prix being brought forward a week from 25-27 June to 18-20 June.

F1’s trip to Austria has also been impacted by this change with the Red Bull Ring now hosting two races, as the Styrian Grand Prix returns across the weekend of 25-27 June, with the Austrian Grand Prix taking place the following weekend of 2-4 July.

Turkish GP organisers however have confirmed that they’re open to hosting a race later in the season, with Singapore, Japan, USA, Mexico, Brazil and Australia all in doubt across October and November.

F1 President and CEO, Stefano Domenicali has praised the sport for their attitude in being ‘able to react quickly’ to fluid developments as the Coronavirus pandemic continues to throw up unprecedented challenges.

Domenicali also praised Turkish promoters and authorities for “… their efforts in recent weeks…” in trying to get the race to go ahead as planned to eventually no avail.

French and Austria Grands Prix promoters were also singled out for showing “… their speed, flexibility and enthusiasm in accommodating this solution.”

Domenicali also confirmed that discussions are ongoing with all promoters of scheduled races on the calendar, whilst vowing to continue to work with them to navigate the ever-changing landscape of Coronavirus induced restrictions.