French GP cancelled as officials turn attention to 2021

The 2020 French Grand Prix has been cancelled after a government ban on 'major events' has been extended until 'at least the middle of July'.

The French Grand Prix was scheduled to take place on June 28th and sat as the potential season opener, but Monday's announcement has forced race officials to make the tough decision to cancel the event.

"Given the evolution of the situation linked to the spread of the Covid-19 virus, the French Grand Prix takes note of the decisions announced by the French State making it impossible to maintain our event," said Eric Boullier, Managing Director of the GIP Grand Prix de France.

"The eyes of the GIP Grand Prix de France - Le Castellet are already turning towards the summer of 2021 in order to offer our spectators an even more original event in the heart of the Southern Region. "

Seven races have been postponed already but the French Grand Prix is only the third cancellation - the others being those in Australia and Monte Carlo.

Proposals have been made that could see the season begin with two races in Austria on July 5, with further races being held at Silverstone in the UK shortly after.

Formula 1 CEO Chase Carey added, " We have been in close contact with the French promoter during this evolving situation and while it is disappointing for our fans and the F1 community that the French Grand Prix will not take place we fully support the decision taken by the French authorities in France and look forward to being back at Paul Ricard soon.”

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