(Motorsport news) This season’s Japanese Grand Prix, originally scheduled for 8th to 10th October has been cancelled due to the ongoing COVID-19 situation in Japan. Out of the 23 races of the season, Japan was due to be the 17th and now joins the list alongside Australia, China, Canada and Singapore where the races have been cancelled.

In a statement issued by Formula 1, they said “The decision has been taken by the Japanese government to cancel the race this season due to ongoing complexities of the pandemic."

"Formula 1 is working on the details of the revised calendar and will announce the final details in the coming weeks."

This is the second year in a row that Formula 1 has not taken place in Japan due to the pandemic and the 2019 event was disrupted due to the Typhoon Hagibis. The 2021 calendar will conclude for the first time ever with the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix on 5th December followed by the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix at the Yas Marina Circuit a week later.

Also read: F1 mid season review: Hamilton vs Verstappen rivalry is just getting started