F1 revised 2020 calendar “likely to differ significantly”

With Formula 1 organisers working on a reshuffled 2020 race calendar, it has been confirmed the new schedule is “likely to differ significantly from our original 2020 calendar”, as it provides an update for fans who have already purchased tickets.

The opening nine F1 races have already been postponed or cancelled and with health measures remaining in place across the world the majority of races yet to be rescheduled remain under threat as the sport reacts to the ongoing coronavirus crisis.

With F1 boss Ross Brawn targeting up to 18 or 19 races if the season can start in July, with options on hosting races without spectators, a heavily revised race calendar is anticipated.

In a statement released on Formula1.com, the sport has effectively confirmed the original 2020 race calendar will not be a guide to how the reshaped season will be laid out.

“Our intention is to start the 2020 season at some point this summer,” the statement read.

“At this time no-one can be certain of exactly when the situation will improve, but when it does, we will be ready to go racing again. We are all committed to bringing our fans a 2020 championship season.

“Formula 1 is currently working with our promoters on a revised 2020 calendar with the actual sequence and schedule dates for races likely to differ significantly from our original 2020 calendar. This will be published in due course.”

F1 has already opened up its opportunity to host races throughout August after moving the summer break to March and April, while officials have also confirmed racing into January 2021 remains a possibility.

The F1 statement also provides details for ticket refunds for fans who have already purchased tickets for races that have been postponed or cancelled.

“If you bought tickets for races that have been postponed or cancelled through F1Tickets.com, F1 Paddock Club and F1 Experiences, we are currently working with each race promoter on the transfer and refund options available to you. We are working at speed to finalise those options and will be in contact with you,” the statement read.

“Ticket holders who did not purchase through those routes should get the latest information on transfers or refunds through their point of purchase, either the relevant ticket reseller or the promoter’s official website as transfer or refund processes may differ for each race.

“For races not postponed ticket holders’ tickets remain valid.”