Iconic 24 Hours of Le Mans Race Faces Postponement Amidst Coronavirus Crisis
Follow Us
The legendary Le Mans 24 hours race is held annually since 1923 and is rightly considered part of the motorsport Triple Crown. However, the 2020 edition of the race may be shifted from June 13-14 to Sept 19-20 owing to the coronavirus outbreak.
According to Automobile Club de L’Ouest president Pierre Fillon, “Postponing the 24 Hours of Le Mans from the original dates in June is now the most appropriate way forward in the current exceptional circumstances.”
Evidently, France took the pandemic threat very seriously. This is because the country placed nearly 67 million people under lockdown.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Le Mans looked set to host the 88th edition of the race at the Sarthe circuit in June. However, fans will have to wait a few months longer for the prestigious event.
Toyota won last year’s race, with double Formula One world champion Fernando Alonso behind the wheel. That race also served as the finale of the FIA’s World Endurance Championship.
How are the Le Mans Circuit authorities handling the matter?
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
“The most important thing today is to curtail the spread of this virus. Our thoughts go out to medical staff working relentlessly for the sake of us all,” said Fillon.
“The postponement of the 24 Hours of Le Mans means making changes to the WEC and ELMS (European Le Mans series) calendars and we shall announce the new dates shortly. The safety and quality of our events will not be compromised.”
Trending
Dale Jr Unmasks Teresa Earnhardt’s Refusal to Sell Him His Late Father’s Prized Possession That Forced Relocation Move
April 17, 2024 12:29 PM EDT
After Team USA’s Defence for Nike, Sha’Carri Richardson and Athing Mu Flaunting Different Olympic Outfits Resurfaces
April 16, 2024 08:22 PM EDT
Masters Horror Lands Jon Rahm & Co in Deep Trouble as Stubborn Greg Norman Refuses to Compromise
April 15, 2024 07:45 PM EDT
“Don’t Come for My Family”: Simone Biles Shuts Down ‘Divorce’ Demands With Jonathan Owens
April 17, 2024 01:58 PM EDT
Roger Federer Breaks Partnership With Billion Dollar Worth Italian Brand Days After Coco Gauff’s Stunning Commercial Appearance
April 12, 2024 07:23 PM EDT
Get instantly notified of the hottest stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.
Follow Us
The Le Mans event is the latest one to feel the effects of the coronavirus wave. Till date, so many sports events have faced cancellation or postponement that one has to wonder if there will be any sports this year.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Fillon beseeched that nobody should take any unnecessary risks just for the sake of the race. AdditionalIy he also heaped plenty of praise on the medical personnel who work hard to safeguard the health of everyone.
Already, several Formula One races have faced postponement. Even the likes of NASCAR, IndyCar and MotoGP are facing the same fate. F1 is actually thinking about stretching the 2020 season into 2021.
Written by:
