OFFICIAL: The Japanese Grand Prix will not take place in 2021 either

No Japanese Grand Prix

The Olympic Games could still take place in Japan but in the past few months, the number of coronavirus cases has increased to such an extent that the organisation of the Grand Prix had to pull the emergency brake. The race at Suzuka was already in doubt for some time but now it has been cancelled for good.

Especially for Honda, it is a hard blow. The Japanese engine manufacturer is in their last year in Formula 1 and would have liked to say goodbye with a bang on their own circuit. With a competitive RB16B and a good Max Verstappen that would have been possible this year. However, that chance will not come now.

''Following several discussions held with the promoter and authorities in Japan, the decision has been taken by the Japanese government to cancel the race due to the problems caused by the coronavirus in the country. Formula 1 is now working on the details of a new calendar, and will announce the final details in the coming weeks'', reads the statement.

''Formula 1 has proven this year, and in 2020, that we can adapt and find solutions despite many uncertainties. We are excited by the level of interest from places that want to host Formula this year and in the coming years'', the statement concludes.