Starting racing season behind closed doors
Reaction is positive to revised Formula One calendar
LONDON - Formula One announced on Tuesday it would start its delayed season in Austria on July 5 with eight races in Europe over the space of 10 weeks.
It will be the first time Austria’s Red Bull Ring has hosted a season-opener. Races will also be held without spectators and with more than one grand prix at the same circuit.
The following is some reaction to the news:
“We take on this challenge unique in the history of F1, and we are looking forward to both weekends. Spielberg will see exciting races - and therefore send a strong sign of feasibility to the whole world.” - Red Bull owner Dietrich Mateschitz.
“It’s a fantastic venue and we are pleased to be starting our championship campaign at our home circuit. It has been a huge effort by all involved and the two events at the Red Bull Ring will be a blueprint for all other races to follow.” - Red Bull team principal Christian Horner.
“While, clearly, it won’t be the same without the fans in the grandstands - and we’ll sorely miss their enthusiasm and support - it’s entirely sensible to start the season behind closed doors.” - Racing Point principal Otmar Szafnauer.
“We’re going to go racing. That’s awesome. Very happy to hear that we finally get some dates and we can go racing... I can’t wait to go racing, to see the team again, feel the car... it’s going to be a bit different than it was before for a little while but we go racing.” - Haas driver Romain Grosjean.