Ferrari suspends production until end of March

Ferrari has suspended all manufacturing production at its Maranello and Modena bases, including its Formula 1 operation, with immediate effect until the end of March amid the coronavirus outbreak.

The move comes as a direct response to the worsening spread of coronavirus in Italy, which has led to the Italian government imposing a lockdown on the country.

COVID-19 has claimed the lives of over 1,000 people in Italy amid a total number of 15,113 confirmed cases of the flu-like disease, with the worst-hit areas in 10 towns in northern Italian subsequently placed into lockdown two weeks ago.

Ferrari has taken action to temporarily cease its production, along with “a number of rigorous preventative measures", to ensure its employees wellbeing as its main priority.

A statement said that all non-manufacturing related activity will continue on a regular basis but added that Scuderia Ferrari, in line with manufacturing, has also suspended its operational activities until March 27.

“At a time like this my gratitude goes first and foremost to Ferrari’s women and men who, with their tremendous commitment over the past few days, have demonstrated the passion and dedication that defines our marque,” said Ferrari CEO Louis Camilleri.

“Together with our suppliers, they have ensured the company’s production. And it is out of our respect for them, for their peace of mind and those of their families that we have decided on this course of action.

“Our clients and fans are also top of mind for us at this time, as we prepare for a strong restart.”

The start of the 2020 F1 season has been delayed until May at the earliest after the opening four rounds in Australia, Bahrain, China and Vietnam were called off amid the coronavirus pandemic.