The Dutch Grand Prix is the latest sporting event to be postponed as organisers have agreed that the race should take place in 2021 instead. The race was originally scheduled to hold on May 3 but was shifted due to the pandemic.
A new date was yet to be decided as there was no revision to the F1 calendar. Now, the event would hold in 2021.
Plans for the grand prix have been underway and it was supposed to be the first race to be held at the recently reconstructed Zandvoort track there in the Netherlands. The Dutch Grand Prix has not been held since 1985 and all efforts were in place to ensure that it goes smoothly. It is also among the 10 grand prix that has been cancelled this year so far and it raises questions on if racing can go on this year.
Speaking on the development, Jan Lammers, director of the Dutch Grand Prix, emphasised the preparedness of all those involved to see that the race held and also expressed his belief that postponing it was the right thing to do.
He said, “We were completely ready for this race and we still are. We and Formula 1 have investigated the potential to hold a rescheduled race this year without spectators, but we would like to celebrate this moment, the return of Formula 1 in Zandvoort, together with our racing fans in the Netherlands.”
The reason for the postponement was because of the new policy that would see races take place behind closed doors when the season resumes. This is in line with the decision of other sports to hold activities behind closed doors, without spectators present to limit the spread of the virus.
For the organisers of the Dutch Grand Prix, it would be better to wait one more year to celebrate the return of the prestigious race rather than hold it now in the absence of fans, some of which have already purchased tickets.
According to Lammers, “we ask everyone to be patient. I had to look forward to it for 35 years, so I can wait another year.” Tickets that were purchased this year would be valid next year and fans also have the option to get a refund instead.
Written by: Leon Osamor
