Formula 1‘s governing body, the FIA, has approved changes to the summer shutdown period due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
The mandatory shutdown will now be in March and April, lasting for a total of 21 days instead of the usual 14.
The changes will mean races could then be held in August, which would usually be possible due to the two-week break imposed on teams so that personnel are afforded a holiday.
The hope is that the change will allow races to be fitted in before the end of the year.
The statement issued by the FIA read: “In light of the global impact of the COVID-19 coronavirus currently affecting the organisation of FIA Formula One World Championship events, the World Motor Sport Council has approved a change to the 2020 FIA Formula 1 Sporting Regulations, moving the summer shutdown period from July and August to March and April and extending it from 14 to 21 days.”
“All competitors must therefore observe a shutdown period of 21 consecutive days during the months of March and/or April.
“The change was supported unanimously by both the F1 Strategy Group and F1 Commission.”
