Formula 1 has canceled the 2023 Chinese Grand Prix.
The sport was set to return to China for the first time since 2019 for the fourth round of the record 24-race season on 16 April.
However, with China continuing to implement a zero-covid policy that has led to heavy restrictions and continued lockdowns, F1 has decided that it is not possible to hold races at the Shanghai International Circuit.
The cancellation reduces the schedule to 23 rounds, although F1 is understood to be in discussions about possible replacements.
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There is currently a four-week gap between races in Australia and Azerbaijan in early and late April, but there are several interested parties in replacing China, including Portimao for the Portuguese GP, which will return to F1 in 2020 and ’21. has come.
A 23-race calendar would still be a record for F1, with a bumper schedule including the first Saturday night race in Las Vegas.
F1 is expected to confirm whether the round in Shanghai will be changed in the new year.
F1 said in a statement: “Following talks with the promoter and the relevant authorities, Formula 1 can confirm that the 2023 Chinese Grand Prix will not take place due to the ongoing difficulties presented by the COVID-19 situation.
“Formula 1 is assessing alternative options to replace the slot on the 2023 calendar and will provide an update on this.”