North West 200 next event to be postponed

North West 200 organisers have officially confirmed the 2020 event scheduled to run across May 10-16 has been postponed amid the coronavirus outbreak.

Fresh from the full cancellation of this year’s Isle of Man TT, the iconic Northern Irish road racing meeting has been put on hold due to restrictions advised by the coronavirus prevention guides issued from public health officials.

“Given the current concerns and restrictions around the coronavirus public health crisis, the organisers of the 2020 fonaCAB and Nicholl Oils North West 200 will postpone the May 10-16 Race Week,” a statement from NW200 organisers announced.

“Over the past two weeks we have been in constant contact with government and public health officials, representatives of Causeway Coast and Glens Council, and the sport’s governing body, the MCUI (UC).

“Today’s decision has been based upon the advice and guidance received. Our paramount desire is to act responsibly and do all we can to protect everyone from the threat posed by the virus.

“We enjoy the full support of loyal sponsors and stakeholders in making this decision but apologise for any inconvenience it has caused to them, our competitors, volunteers and race fans.”

NW200 officials haven’t plotted out a potential rescheduling plan given the uncertainty around the coronavirus crisis which has made it unclear when public events and sport can resume on a wider scale without restrictions.

Currently, no major motorsport event is confirmed to be going ahead until at least May, but further postponements and cancellations are expected in the coming days.