Coronavirus situation an hourly ‘moving target’ -  Horner

Red Bull Formula 1 team principal Christian Horner says the developing situation regarding the coronavirus outbreak is a “moving target” that is changing on an hourly basis.

Amid the rapidly-evolving spread of COVID-19, there are ongoing concerns about how the disease could affect the 2020 F1 season, with the Chinese Grand Prix already postponed.

There are doubts linging over the opening three rounds in Australia, Bahrain and Vietnam - particularly with regards to potential travel and/or guarantine restrictions - though Australian GP race organisers have insisted the Melbourne round will go ahead as planned. 

Asked about the prospect of teams being restricted from travelling to events, Horner joked: “I think we are all hopeful that Mercedes don’t make it through, that would be wishful thinking.

“In all seriousness we have to follow guidance from the countries, governments and our own governments and governing bodies,” he added.

"Chase Carey was here this morning [on Friday] so we had a quick update with him.

“It is a moving target. It changes almost by the hour at the moment so I think we have to keep a watching brief, be responsible in how we act and logistically moving people around the world at the moment has its challenges.

"Everybody is finding out which hubs they will be going through en route to Australia.

“As I said it is a moving target so all we can do is follow the advice of the governing body and the local governments.”

Reigning world champion Lewis Hamilton also expressed his concerns about the coronavirus and believes people need to “take it seriously”.

“Ultimately the FIA and the organisers decide where we go to race,” Hamilton said.

“Naturally, I’ve been watching the news everyday and it’s concerning to see how it’s continued to spread and doesn’t look like it’s going to stop spreading any time soon.

“I hope that those that have it recovers and I hope that everyone takes it seriously. Everyone is shaking hands and hugging and it is all around us.

“Even travelling is going to be difficult so I think you have to take all the precautions you can and I think the governments can do more to try and contain it.”