COTA chief rues 'painful' loss of US GP as F1 cancels all races in Americas

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Circuit of the Americas boss Bobby Epstein says the loss of this year's United States Grand Prix is "painful" as Formula 1 opts not to head West.

On Friday, it was confirmed the Nurburgring, Imola and Portimao in Portugal would all make one-off appearances on the 2020 calendar, this as the US, Mexico City, Brazil and Canada GP's were all officially cancelled.

"After ongoing discussions and close collaboration with our partners we can also confirm that due to the fluid nature of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, local restrictions and the importance of keeping communities and our colleagues safe, it will not be possible to race in Brazil, USA, Mexico and Canada this season," a statement read.

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In the case of COTA, this means F1 won't be heading to Austin for the first time since its inaugural year in 2012 and marks a big blow for the race that has become one of the highlights of the championship.

"The cancellation is prudent but painful," Epstein was quoted by GPFans.

"After a sold-out 2019, advance ticket sales deposits were up nearly 250 per cent over the prior year, and our staff was preparing our biggest event ever.

"I'm disappointed for the fans, COTA employees, our community, and everyone in the Formula One paddock, as I believe we all look forward to what has become a wonderful annual tradition.

"It is my hope that the pandemic will soon pass and we will celebrate 2021 with the greatest Formula One United States Grand Prix ever!"

In the case of Canada, the race in Montreal had been postponed from its original June date but there had been talk of a possible new October date.

However, also commenting on F1's decision not to cross the Atlantic, promoter Francois Dumontier ultimately agreed it was the safest course of action.

"Though it is disappointing and difficult for us to face this conclusion it is a decision we must accept," he said.

"The health and safety of our employees, volunteers, partners, and of our faithful fans are and always will be our top priority."

Finally, a statement on the Mexico City GP website read: "We agree that, for reasons of force majeure beyond the organisers, the Grand Prix of Mexico City scheduled for 2020, will be postponed to be held in 2021 according to the official schedule that Formula 1 establishes.

"We are committed to doing everything necessary to ensure the safest experience for all attendees, including our fans, business partners, collaborators, the media, volunteers and participants.

"We are confident that this decision will allow us to continue offering you the best sports experience in the world. In the meantime, we continue to work to welcome you in 2021 and together celebrate our F1ESTA."

Organisers for the Brazil GP at Interlagos are yet to comment publicly.

 

         

 

 

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