F1 in S’pore Has Been Cancelled Again; Supposed to Take Place in October 2021

F1 in S’pore Has Been Cancelled Again; Supposed to Take Place in October 2021

According to The Straits Times, race organiser Singapore GP has announced some rather depressing news:

The Singapore Airlines Singapore Grand Prix will, once again, be cancelled.

As one may speculate, it’s largely due to “ongoing safety and logistic concerns brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic”.

“To cancel the event for a second year is an incredibly difficult decision, but a necessary one in light of the prevailing restrictions for live events in Singapore,” said Colin Syn, deputy chairman of Singapore GP.

“We would not be able to deliver a full event experience fans have come to expect over the years, while safeguarding the health and safety of our fans, contractors, volunteers and staff. Ultimately, we have to be responsible, cautious and prudent, as safety is our number one concern.

“We are grateful for the support of Singaporeans, stakeholders and local businesses who have helped contribute to the success of the night race. Needless to say, we look forward to the safe return of Formula 1 racing against the spectacular Marina Bay skyline.”

Had the race been scheduled to take place as planned, it would have occurred from 1 October to 3 October 2021.

According to the news report, several other key events have also been postponed or cancelled.

These include the Shangri-La Dialogue and even the World Economic Forum’s special annual meeting.

Several sports events have also been halted.

Over on F1’s end, it has already cancelled two other races: the June 13 Canadian GP and its replacement, the Turkish GP.

What About Ticket Holders?

Current ticket holders will now be able to get a full refund, in contrast to a year’s deferral last year.

According to Singapore GP, the race organiser will be contacting affiliated personnel directly.

Heightened Alert

Although the local situation had been improving in recent months, a recent cluster over at Tan Tock Seng Hospital served to undo some of the good work done thus far.

In light of an increase in community cases, Singapore shifted into a Heightened Alert phase, under which maximum group sizes were cut down to just two personnel.

Results seemed bleak until yesterday (4 June), when the lowest number of cases was recorded in a month.

Featured Image: Jordan Tan / Shutterstock.com