F1 fans FURIOUS as Chinese Grand Prix cancelled over Covid restrictions - ‘Fuming!’

Formula One fans have shared their anger at the Chinese Grand Prix being cancelled due to Covid restrictions in the country.

The race in Shanghai – due to take place on April 16 – has been scrapped amid ongoing coronavirus restrictions in the country.

The race in Shanghai has been scrapped amid ongoing coronavirus restrictions in the country.
David Davies

The sport is now facing a four-week hole in the 2023 calendar with the defunct round in China sandwiched by races in Melbourne on April 2 and Azerbaijan on April 30.

F1 said in a statement: “Formula 1 can confirm, following dialogue with the promoter and relevant authorities, that the 2023 Chinese Grand Prix will not take place due to the ongoing difficulties presented by the COVID-19 situation.

“Formula 1 is assessing alternative options to replace the slot on the 2023 calendar and will provide an update on this in due course.”

It last took place in 2019, when it was won by Lewis Hamilton.
David Davies

Fans were quick to react to the news with some sharing their anger at the cancellation.

One Twitter user said: “Seriously just bin the venue entirely. For as long as COVID still exists, F1 ain’t going to China” while another simply said “fuming”.

Others shared where they would like the race to be held: “Gutted but this was to be expected... hopefully we see the Chinese GP back in 2024.

“If it were to be replaced, I would love to see the Malaysian GP make a return to the calendar!”

The cancellation of the race in China will mark the fourth season it has been scrubbed from the schedule. It last took place in 2019, when it was won by Lewis Hamilton.

The 2023 season will start in Bahrain on March 5 and conclude in Abu Dhabi on November 26.

But it is understood F1 bosses are in dialogue with a number of interested venues about filling the gap to ensure a record 24 rounds still go ahead.

F1 expects to confirm whether the round in Shanghai will be replaced in the new year.