Announcement of first ever Qatari Grand Prix just a formality

Due to the worldwide continuing coronavirus problemss, it is, just like last season, a hell of a job for the F1-management to keep the calendar full. The Dutch Grand Prix was given the green light at the last minute, but races in Singapore, Japan, China, Canada and Australia have all been cancelled.

Qatar

However, Motorsport.com have reported that the gap in the calendar caused by Melbourne has been filled by Qatar. The race, that was supposed to be held in Australia on 21 November, will now be held at the Losail International Circuit. This circuit won't be unknown to followers of MotoGP since they have been racing at this circuit since 2004.

Despite the global pandemic, the F1 management are doing its utmost to get 23 races on the calendar. Gaps in the calendar have already been filled with a race at Istanbul Park in Turkey, where Formula 1 cars were also raced last year. If they don't manage to have 23 races, 21 races is the minimum the organisation is aiming for.

Second race in Bahrain

It is once again proof that the Middle East is hot when it comes to Formula 1. Bahrain and Abu Dhabi were already hosting races and now Qatar is joining them. Saudi Arabia will also make its first appearance on the calendar this season. Motorsport.com also reports that Liberty Media is working on a second race in Bahrain, which would be held on a shortened version of the Sakhir-circuit.