“It’s a huge disappointment”– Daniel Ricciardo shares his sorrow after the Australian Grand Prix gets cancelled for 2021 too.
The Australian Grand Prix was set to embark on its return to Formula 1 in 2021, after a year-long exile in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic spread.
But the recent statement by the organizers and F1 reveals that Australia is once again withdrawing its participation from the calendar amidst the rising surge in cases.
Daniel Ricciardo, the only Australian driver on the grid has shared his disappointment after his home race gets cancelled for another year but also clarifies that he understands the situation.
“It’s a huge disappointment for all of the drivers that we won’t be coming down to Australia in November, but we understand the reasons,” Ricciardo said.
“For me personally, I can’t wait to have the chance to race at home again, and it’ll be even sweeter when we do because it’s been so long. Fingers crossed things can change for 2022 and we get to see the awesome fans at Albert Park again and put on a good show for them.”
The Australian Grand Prix also shared a video message by Ricciardo, talking to fans about how dejected he is after the recent race cancellation.
Stay strong, #AusGP fans 🇦🇺 @danielricciardo has a special message for you. #F1 pic.twitter.com/Oia18in1uy
— F1 Australian Grand Prix (@ausgrandprix) July 6, 2021
It’s a shame
Australia was preparing immensely for the return of F1 this year, and certain turns of Albert Park were also being modified to make the race more interesting, but now the drivers will have to wait till 2022.
“I’m shattered that we can’t hold a Formula 1 event in Australia for another year,” said Mark Webber. “It’s a real shame as we’re world-class at pulling these types of events off as an organisation.”
Now, the biggest talking point is going to be which circuit is going to replace Australia this year, and will F1 have another triple-header? As it was earlier imposed after the cancellation of the Canadian Grand Prix.