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The world's motorsport governing body, the FIA, has announced that the Formula 1's traditional summer shutdown period has been brought forward and extended due to the coronavirus pandemic., F1.com reported.
The fortnight break, which is usually penciled in for August will take place in March and April. The start of the season has been delayed as the world curbs sporting events. The revised break has been extended to 21 days.
READ | F1 break 'brought forward' as teams begin coronavirus quarantine period
The Australian Grand Prix was due to be held on 15 March, however a member of the McLaren team tested positive for coronavirus and the British team pulled out of the race. F1 organisers then decided to cancel the race mere hours ahead of the first practice session.
Races in Bahrain, Vietnam and China have all been officially postponed.
A statement from the sport's governing body the FIA said: "In light of the global impact of the COVID-19 coronavirus currently affecting the organisation of FIA Formula One World Championship events, the World Motor Sport Council has approved a change to the 2020 FIA Formula 1 Sporting Regulations, moving the summer shutdown period from July and August to March and April and extending it from 14 to 21 days.
