June's Canadian Grand Prix has become the latest round of the 2020 Formula 1 season to be postponed due to the coronavirus.
Already, F1 has been forced to call off the first eight races of the year due to the global pandemic, and organisers of the event at Montreal's Circuit Gilles Villeneuve have opted to make it nine.
“This postponement was not a decision that was taken lightly or easily,” a statement read.
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“Over the past month, we have been in constant communication with Formula 1 and representatives from the city of Montréal, Tourism Montreal and both provincial and federal governments.
“We have heard the directives issued by public health officials and as a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic are following the expert guidance provided by the authorities.
“Our thoughts and most sincere thanks go to the men and women working tirelessly to keep us healthy, safe and fed during these uncertain times.
“Montreal would have been honoured to host the first race on the 2020 Formula 1 World Championship calendar and we are saddened at being unable to go ahead as planned."
Like many countries, Canada has seen a gradual increase in the rate of COVID-19 cases with over 17,800 recorded nationally and almost 4,000 in the city alone.
And F1 CEO Chase Carey promised the sport would return when safe to do so.
“We have been working closely with our friends at the Canadian Grand Prix over the past few weeks and support them in taking this necessary decision to ensure the safety of fans and the F1 community,” he said.
“We always look forward to travelling to the incredible city of Montreal and while we will all have to wait a bit longer, we will put on a great show when we arrive later this year.”
And Canadian GP CEO Francois Dumontier reassured: "We will welcome you with open arms to Circuit Gilles Villeneuve as soon as it is safe to do so."
