Sepang: An unprecedented time, stand united

Razlan Razali, team principal of Petronas Yamaha and CEO of the Sepang circuit, has issued the following statement, urging everyone 'to do whatever is possible to minimise the risk" of spreading the coronavirus and supporting MotoGP organisers in the face of ongoing calendar delays.

“The COVID-19 pandemic is an unprecedented time in our history. It has affected and impacted on the health of our loved ones, the businesses we rely upon, the global economy and the way we live our daily lives," Razali said.

“Our love and passion in motorsports whether it be two or four wheels, circuit or off road is essentially entertainment. It pales in significance to the pandemic we face and the priority is the well being and health of the global fans and our crew members.

“We remind and urge everyone to do whatever is possible to minimise the risk of spreading the virus, adhere to your respective Government instructions and stay at home.

“We stand united and in full support to Dorna, the FIM and IRTA on the changes to the calendar and steps taken to ensure that MotoGP will continue this year.”

Razali was one of the first in MotoGP to foresee the significance of the coronavirus on the world championship, warning in early February, when the sport gathered at Sepang for the opening pre-season test: "Hopefully this coronavirus epidemic will end soon. If not, then it'll be very difficult for everybody..."

Malaysia, which traditionally hosts the penultimate round of the season, has been moved forwards to round 17 of 20 due to the revisions so far announced.

However, with no racing expected until at least June, further event changes and some cancellations appear inevitable.