>>> Vietnam Formula 1 racetrack named after Hanoi
The first-ever grand prix to be held in Vietnam, which will take place on a street circuit in downtown Hanoi, is set to make its debut on the F1 calendar on April 5.
Against the complicated development of the Covid-19 epidemic, on February 12, the International Automobile Federation (FIA) and F1 announced the postponement of the Chinese GP, the Shanghai race, which was scheduled for April 19, because of the Covid-19 outbreak in the country. International media and fans were also concerned that the F1 Vietnam GP could be delayed for the same reason.
However, F1’s Managing Director Ross Brawn has said that they have no intention of rescheduling the Vietnam GP. Speaking to Reuters at an event in Canada on Wednesday, Brawn insisted that the race is currently on course to remain as a fixture on the calendar.
"For Vietnam, all the feedback we are getting is rather like the UK. There have been some cases but not at a level that would concern us,” he said.
Meanwhile, at a meeting with Hanoi Tourism Department on the same day, General Director of Vietnam Grand Prix Co., Ltd Le Ngoc Chi also said that the organisers of the Hanoi F1 race are constantly updating the development of Covid-19.
At the same time, they are closely following the direction of the relevant ministries and sectors in the prevention and control of the epidemic, in order to ensure the safety of racing teams and attendees, and to promptly deal with guests who are subjected to entry bans into Vietnam due to coming from the epidemic areas.
Along with that, Hanoi authorities are also accelerating their work in support of the tournament, such as building a traffic diversion plan to protect the F1 race, dispatching health officials on duty for events to ensure healthcare and prevent a Covid-19 epidemic during the race, and preparing plans for accommodation and advertising Hanoi’s heritages to attract tourists during the race.
Currently, the stands for the Hanoi racetrack have gradually taken shape. Installation of protective fences and other fixed items has also basically been completed.
According to the schedule, the first F1 race in Vietnam will take place right before the Chinese GP on the Hanoi track on April 5. This year is also the most significant season in F1's 70-year history, with a total of 22 races lasting 38 weeks.
