Belgian Grand Prix remains in doubt in F1 calendar after government decision on massive events

LONDON, Apr 15 (Reuters) – The conduct of the Belgian Formula One Grand Prix was in doubt on Wednesday, after the country extended the ban on mass gatherings until the end of August due to the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to that collides with the planned date of the race on the 30th of that month.

Prime Minister Sophie Wilmes told a news conference that her government and medical and economic experts will meet next week to organize a gradual return to normal from the beginning of May.

“The Circuit will await the next communication from the National Security Council,” the Spa circuit website said in a statement regarding the measure that runs through August 31.

For his part, Stijn de Boever, commercial director of the race, told motorsport.com that in the coming days there will be consultations to consider options, including running without an audience.

“The only sure thing is that the race will not take place on the scheduled date with a large number of spectators,” he added.

The F1 season has yet to start, with nine races having already been canceled or postponed. The category has raised the possibility of running behind closed doors, at least to meet commercial obligations related to television.

Races could also be organized until January, but the Belgian weather would complicate the test later in the year.

(Edited in Spanish by Javier Leira)