Formula One was disappointed to announce that the two races planned for Silverstone have been abandoned. This follows after the United Kingdom has implemented updated quarantine regulations, forcing multiple sporting venues to rethink their slated events for the UK this month. It’s expected that Boris Johnson will reveal new restrictions on travelling, forcing all those who enter the country to quarantine themselves for fourteen days. This will apply towards tourists and residents, with anybody breaking the rules receiving a fine ranging from £1,000.00 to £10,000.00. Offenders will be determined by daily checkups & GPS Tracking. The United Kingdom won’t lift these restrictions for a minimum of three weeks.
Formula One requested that they receive an exception from these travelling restrictions, stating to legislators that their respective revenue brought into the United Kingdom and Silverstone should permit the limitation. Event planners with Formula One would’ve purchased an influx of COVID-19 Testing Kits, requiring on-site personnel to receive a test before entering & after leaving Silverstone.
This initially appeared to be enough for the United Kingdom’s Secretary of Sports, with Oliver Dowden providing his public support behind this concept. Insiders believe that Boris Johnson refused Oliver’s assistance with Formula One, demanding that exemptions towards sporting venues not be permitted. This followed after Johnson received an influx of complaints regarding F1, Cricket & other sporting venues receiving exceptions to these travelling restrictions. Car manufacturers and airline manufacturers requested they receive exemptions to these updated laws. Johnson had to refuse everyone to make these conditions equal.
Replaced Grand Prix
Formula One organizers had anticipated starting their redesigned 2020 Season in Austria, holding Grand Prix’s on the 5th and 12th of August. Silverstone in Great Britain would’ve been the next venue to hold a Grand Prix, with Holland now being considered to replace the British GP. It should be noted though that worldwide, the 2nd wave of COVID-19 is beginning, which could prompt an influx of cancellations again. All efforts made by organizers could be pointless by August. Silverstone being confirmed as cancelled for a 2nd time this year follows after Sebastian Vettel confirmed he’d no longer drive with Ferrari. This prompted multiple changes in the driver lineup.