Singapore Grand Prix cancelled: Here are the options to replace the Marina Bay circuit in the F1 2021 calendar?
The Singapore Grand Prix at the Marina Bay Circuit has been cancelled for the second year running. This was confirmed by the race authorities due to the travel restrictions in the city country. The race was scheduled for the weekend of October 1-3.
“We understand that our fans were looking forward to another edition of the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix,” said Colin Syn, the deputy chairman of Singapore GP.
“To cancel the event for a second year is an incredibly difficult decision, but a necessary one in light of the prevailing restrictions for live events in Singapore.
“We would not be able to deliver a full event experience fans have come to expect over the years while safeguarding the health and safety of our fans, contractors, volunteers and staff. Ultimately, we have to be responsible, cautious and prudent as safety is our number one concern.
“We are grateful for the support of Singaporeans, stakeholders, and local businesses who have helped contribute to the success of the night race. Needless to say, we look forward to the safe return of Formula 1 racing against the spectacular Marina Bay skyline.”
Turkey, China, or the USA could replace Singapore GP?
The three replacement options mooted so far are races that have either been cancelled/postponed already, or have a race scheduled already.
Turkey’s Istanbul Park is the prime contender, having already seen it cancelled due to travel restrictions placed by the UK. Most of the teams – Red Bull, McLaren, Aston Martin, Williams – are British, and it would have been improbable for them to travel to Turkey bypassing their government’s protocols. But there is hope that the pandemic situation would improve drastically by October.
China, one of the few cancelled/postponed races, is also in the reckoning, albeit highly unlikely. If it is not considered by the FIA & FOM, then the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas might be awarded a double-header. As it stands, it has offered to host any additional races.
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