As a result of health developments linked to the coronavirus and current restrictions in France and around the world, the Automobile Club de l'Ouest, organizer of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, in consultation with the FIA WEC World Endurance Championship and the Fédération Internationale Automobile (FIA), announced yesterday to postpone the 88th edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, initially scheduled for June 13 and 14, 2020, to September 19 and 20, 2020.
In these conditions, it seems unrealistic to think that the French MotoGP Grand Prix will be able to continue on its initial date of May 17, even if there has not yet been any official decision taken.
The latest communication from the organizer, Claude Michy, now dates back to March 10 with the following content: “The holding of the SHARK Helmets Grand Prix de France 2020, scheduled for May 15, 16 and 17 on the Le Mans circuit, has not been called into question to date. »
“As part of the evolution of the coronavirus, the situation in France and in the world is evolving day after day, with decisions being made on a case-by-case basis concerning numerous events, whether sporting, cultural or any other area. . »
“The 2020 SHARK Helmets Grand Prix de France is due to take place in more than 60 days and there is no way to know what situation we will find ourselves in by then. »
“As a result, a cancellation or postponement of such a distant event is not currently possible. And optimism being essential, we hope that all events, whatever they may be, can return to normal activity as soon as possible. »
3 days later, a message informed participants at the SHARK Helmets Grand Prix de France 2020 press conference, which was to be held on March 24 in Paris, that: “Taking into account the announcements made yesterday by the President of the Republic and the various instructions to be observed in limiting travel and gatherings of people, the organization of the SHARK Helmets Grand Prix de France is postponing the press conference until the 2nd half of the month of 'april. The exact date will be communicated soon. »
In view of the current situation, we can legitimately think that it would take a miracle for the French Grand Prix to take place on the scheduled date.
A decision will be made the first week of April.
