BTCC delays 2020 season start due to coronavirus

The start of the 2020 British Touring Car Championship will be delayed after the series announced it has postponed the opening three rounds due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

In response to the latest directives issues by the government regarding social distancing on Monday amid the outbreak of COVID-19, BTCC has postponed the first three races at Donington Park on March 28-29, Brands Hatch (April 11-12) and Silverstone (April 25-26).

BTCC says it has the “firm intention” of running the full season of 10 events and will now work closely with the circuits and series stakeholders to reschedule races for all the postponed rounds.

Full BTCC statement: 

“Yesterday (16 March) the government introduced updated coronavirus directives. 

“These included asking citizens to avoid all non-essential social contact and non-essential travel, as well as advising of the withdrawal of the provision of emergency services to mass gatherings.

“TOCA of course completely respects the government’s directives. The health of our entire nation  – not just our competitors, fans, marshals, officials and personnel – is of absolute importance.

“Accordingly, the start of the 2020 BTCC must now be delayed and we therefore advise the postponement of our first three events:

- Donington Park (March 28/29)
-Brands Hatch (April 11/12)
-Silverstone (April 25/26)

“Clearly the COVID-19 situation is ever-changing and incredibly challenging for everyone. Our firm intention is to run the full season of ten events and we will work closely with the circuits and our stakeholders in order to reschedule new dates for all postponed events. These will be confirmed and announced when there is further clarity regarding the eventual resumption of major sporting events.”