Van der Garde is happy with an opening race in Austria: "Situation is improving"

Plans for the first race of the season are on the table, with the Austrian Grand Prix on 5 July. According to Giedo van der Garde it is a good location to start the F1 season again.

The Formula 1 season should have been underway for two months, but due to the coronavirus it didn't work out. All those involved in the sport want to start the season as soon as possible, with a concrete proposal on the table to start in Austria.

According to Giedo van der Garde the plans are realistic and the former F1-driver has confidence in them. "Austria has been hit hard by the virus, with all the ski resorts in that region. They have already had a long lockdown and the situation there is now improving. On top of that you have to start all over again. All teams just have costs that they have to keep paying."

Teams in heavy weather

For the teams there is now nothing in the ditch, which is a logical consequence Van der Garde informs Motorsport.com. "If I were a television company or sponsor, I would do the same. There is no driving and therefore I don't get fame, so why do I have to pay?"

The Dutchman is therefore worried about some teams, because not every team has the same deep pockets as the top teams. "There are teams that will have a hard time. Before the crisis, for example, Williams already had a hard time, you shouldn't forget that. I have also heard that Alfa Romeo has sent a lot of people home from the factory. Those teams might not make it. That's why it's important to get back to work as soon as possible."