Portugal’s situation may disrupt F1 plans
The ‘double’ racing formula was used three times in 2020
Let us remember that in the last calendar that Formula 1 revealed there was a free place between Imola and Barcelona, which pointed towards Portugal, but the country’s situation is worrying and the future of the Grand Prix could take a radical turn.
The F1 calendar is scheduled to start the season in Bahrain on March 28, before heading to Imola – April 18 for the race. The third GP, whose race would be on May 2, is the one that is not yet confirmed but all fingers pointed towards Portugal.
One of the big problems is that, given the increase in covid-19 cases, Portugal has very limited entry and exit of people from the country … which would make it impossible to host an F1 GP. Of course, there are still almost three months to go before the estimated date.
The situation is complicated, but the premier class of motorsport has alternatives. According to the Dutch from Grand Prix Radio, in case Portugal cannot celebrate its Grand Prix, the season would begin with a double test in Sakhir.
It is a procedure that served Formula 1 to create an emergency season last year. Austria, Great Britain and Bahrain ‘repeated’ races, although the Bahraini event was the only one to use two different designs of its circuit.
In addition, it should be noted that the preseason will also take place in Bahrain, from March 12 to 14. Therefore, for the teams it would mean a cost saving to play two races there again by having all the material already transferred.
Of course, in case of having a double appointment in Bahrain and ruling out Portugal, the calendar could undergo further modifications, since the teams would have little margin to take the material to Imola for the second race of the year.
If you want to read more news like this visit our Flipboard
