Motorsport Australia acknowledges today’s announcement that the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix will not be held this year.
 
Instead, focus now turns to planning for a 2022 event to be held at Albert Park at a date to be confirmed.
 
Motorsport Australia CEO Eugene Arocca said the decision to not hold an event in 2021 was disappointing but understandable, given border and travel restrictions that are still in effect in Australia.
 
“The Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix is one of the highlights on the global motorsport calendar for fans, competitors and officials,” Arocca said.
 
“We’re understandably disappointed that this year’s event will not take place as originally planned in November, but look forward to Albert Park hosting a race some time in 2022.
 
“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the 1000 Motorsport Australia officials who make the event possible. We saw plenty of interest from our officials for their support of an event in 2021, including offers of entering a proposed bubble for some time to help the event become a reality. While that dedication will not be required in November, their passion for the sport is truly inspiring.
 
“It’s also important to acknowledge the hard work of the team at the Australian Grand Prix Corporation, led by CEO Andrew Westacott. We will continue to support Andrew and the team as best we can as a key event partner and begin working together on the 2022 event.”
 
Motorsport Australia has also confirmed it is targeting 2023 to host a round of the FIA World Rally Championship.
 
Arocca said Motorsport Australia was aiming to win back a place on the WRC calendar, with a new venue and had already begun necessary discussions and funding applications with different levels of government.
 
“Regaining our place on the international calendar for the WRC is no easy task but we are determined to work with stakeholders and governments to secure a venue, and the necessary funding," Arocca added.
 
“Hosting international events in the near-term remains an obvious challenge but we must plan for the future and we are hopeful we can get the support needed to bring Rally Australia back and put on a world-class event.”