Szafnauer: "It won't be the same without fans in the stands"

It remains to be seen whether the Formula 1 season can continue as planned. Liberty Media has indicated that it is keeping an eye on the situation and if it changes, a Grand Prix or the entire calendar can be cancelled in an instant.

However, for the time being the 5th of July will be held for the start of the new season and everything will be done to make the Grand Prix as safe as possible. "The procedures that we have implemented in the factory will also apply on the circuit and maybe even stricter. So we are as well prepared as possible to keep everyone safe," Szafnauer said in a press release.

A completely different situation than normal

Despite the preparations it will be an odd weekend in Austria, according to the team boss of Racing Point. "It will be weird to get on a plane again and fly to another country after such a long time. The situation on the track will also feel very different than usual".

"It will obviously not be the same without fans in the stands, and we will miss their enthusiasm and support very much, but it is the responsible choice to start the season behind closed doors. To do that specifically in Austria will be totally positive for us, because we have strong ties with the country through BWT. So we are really looking forward to it", the Romanian says, despite the fact that he also sees quite a challenge in the busy calendar.