Australian Grand Prix cancelled for second year due to pandemic

July 6, 2021: The Australia Formula 1 Grand Prix has been cancelled for a second straight year due to the “restrictions and logistical challenges” of the pandemic, organisers said.

Early on Tuesday Australian Grand Prix Corporation AGPC tweeted: “We regret to announce that the 2021 #AusGP has been cancelled due to restrictions and logistical challenges relating to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.” The announcement came after Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Friday unveiled a new national pandemic plan which includes cutting international flight numbers by half from July 14.

In a statement, AGPC chairman Paul Little said: “We’re deeply disappointed that for a second consecutive year, both MotoGP and Formula One 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.”

Formula One chief executive officer 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. Another race at Austin’s Circuit of Americas is an option for F1, while a second visit to Bahrain – venue for the season-opening round back in March – is also on the table.

However, it is worth noting that Bahrain is currently on the government’s red list, along with Brazil and the United Arab Emirates, with Abu Dhabi scheduled to stage the final round of the season on December 12. Turkey which is also on the red list, filled the void left by the Singapore Grand Prix when it was cancelled on June 25 due to travel restrictions put in place in the city state, with the alternative race now taking place at Istanbul Park on October 1-3.

McLaren’s Australian driver Daniel Ricciardo said on grandprix.com.au: “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.”

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