F1 CEO Carey apologises to fans in open letter

Formula 1’s CEO Chase Carey has written an open letter to fans in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak and its subsequent impact on the 2020 season.

In the letter, Carey apologised for the cancellation of the planned season-opening Australian Grand Prix, explaining that F1’s priority is the health and safety of the fans and the entire F1 paddock amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Australian Grand Prix was abandoned after McLaren withdrew from the event following a confirmed case of coronavirus within its team crew. Upcoming races in Bahrain, China and Vietnam have also been postponed, meaning the campaign is now set to begin in May at the earliest.

Carey promised F1 is doing everything possible to get the season underway as soon as possible and is “engaging with experts and officials on a daily basis” regarding the developing coronavirus situation.

Chase Carey’s letter in full:

Dear F1 Fans,

We wanted to provide some thoughts and perspectives from last week as we address the coronavirus pandemic.

First and foremost, our priority is the health and safety of the fans, teams, and organisations of Formula 1, as well as wider society.

We apologise to those fans affected by the cancellation in Australia, as well as the postponement of the other races to date. These decisions are being made by Formula 1, the FIA, and our local promoters in rapidly changing and evolving circumstances, but we believe they are the right and necessary ones. We also want to extend our thoughts to those already affected, including those in the Formula 1 family.

We recognise everyone wants to know what comes next for Formula 1 in 2020. We cannot provide specific answers today given the fluidity of the situation. However, we plan to get the 2020 Championship season underway as soon as it’s safe to do so. We are engaging with experts and officials on a daily basis as we evaluate how we go forward in the next few months. We will keep you updated and provide details as soon as possible on formula1.com.

We are grateful for your support and understanding and we wish you and your families all the best.

Sincerely,

Chase