Formula E’s Jakarta race postponed amid coronavirus battle as organisers make contingency plans
- Indonesian capital joins Rome and Sanya races in looking for another date as coronavirus hits calendar
- Paris and Seoul events could also be affected but organisers are looking for alternatives to ensure smooth season six
Formula E’s debut E-Prix in Jakarta planned for June has joined the Rome and Sanya races in being postponed, organisers announced on Wednesday.
“As instructed by the Governor of Jakarta Anies Baswedan – and in consultation together with Formula E, the FIA, Ikatan Motor Indonesia and the Organising Committee of the Jakarta E-Prix – it will no longer be possible to race in Jakarta on the scheduled date of June 6, 2020,” a statement read.
“Due to the outbreak of COVID-19 and the escalating number of cases in Indonesia and Jakarta, the decision has been taken as the most responsible course of action, to protect the health and safety of championship participants, staff and spectators.
“We will continue to monitor the situation closely with the relevant authorities and the Organising Committee of the Jakarta E-Prix, in order to assess the possibilities of rescheduling the race at a later date.”
The all electric racing series has also had to cancel plans for its Rome and Sanya races because of the coronavirus epidemic and organisers face a challenge for season six to be completed with its full calendar of races.
There is speculation that the debut Seoul E-Prix, planned for May 3, will also be postponed, while the Paris E-Prix, set for April 18, could be affected too.
