The Montreal Grand Prix has officially been postponed

Montreal’s iconic racing event, one that unofficially marks the beginning of summer in the city, has been postponed.

The Canadian Grand Prix — originally scheduled for June 12 to 14 — has been postponed amidst the ongoing global outbreak.

The news follows Formula 1’s announcement that promoters are working on a revised 2020 calendar, in which currently scheduled dates are “like to differ significantly,” according to F1’s news release.

Montreal promoters said they “would have been honoured to host the first race on the 2020 Formula 1 World Championship calendar” and that they were “saddened” to have to postpone the race.

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“This postponement was not a decision that was taken lightly or easily,” read the statement. “Over the past month, we have been in constant communication with Formula 1 and representatives from the city of Montréal, Tourism Montreal and both provincial and federal governments. We have heard the directives issued by public health officials and as a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic are following the expert guidance provided by the authorities.”

All previously sold tickets for the Formula 1 Canadian Grand Prix 2020 will continue to be valid. As the new dates for the Grand Prix are confirmed, spectators will be informed on the next available steps.

Montreal Grand Prix/Shutterstock

“I am proud to see how such wonderful initiatives and technical advancements stemming from Formula 1 are being applied in a time of crisis,” added Francois Dumontier, president and CEO Formula 1 Canadian Grand Prix. “At the moment it is crucial that all of our energies be put together to overcome COVID-19. We will welcome you with open arms to Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve as soon as it is safe to do so.”