US GP F1 venue closes amid coronavirus outbreak

The Circuit of the Americas, the home of the United States Formula 1 Grand Prix, has closed indefinitely in response to the global coronavirus pandemic.

The Texas circuit has confirmed it has let go of staff and reduced hours as a result of the closure, which comes amid a host of recent postponements and cancelations due to the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak.

On Sunday, the US Centres of Disease Control and Prevention recommended a 50-person limit to public gatherings following tighter restrictions in the county on Saturday, with the City of Austin and Travis County banning gatherings of 250 people or more.

COTA has already been hit by MotoGP’s planned April 5 round being postponed until November, while IndyCar’s race - scheduled for April 26 - has been cancelled indefinitely. It is likely that non-motorsport events such as a Rolling Stones concert on May 24 will no longer go ahead.

The 2020 United States Grand Prix is due to be held at COTA on October 25.

“COTA is an amphitheater, racetrack, sports stadium, conference centre, and place where fans and friends come together to create lasting memories,” a COTA statement read.

“Without concerts, racers and games, we have limited use. Understandably and importantly, public safety takes precedence over celebratory gatherings.

“It is our greatest hope that our community remains healthy, and when the virus passes, we reunite for many years of treasured moments with friends and family.

“We are heartbroken for our employees (and their families) who spend all year preparing to welcome guests from Austin and all around the globe but now find themselves without work,” the statement continued.

“The joy of creating memorable occasions has been replaced with the disappointing reality of a worldwide crisis. It is indeed a terrible time in the event and hospitality business.

“Most of all, we hope every stays healthy, heeds the caution advised by leaders and experts, and comes back to COTA when good times return.”