Formula 1 racing will return to Europe in our new normal on July the 5th with the first race since lock down measures were relaxed being held in Austria. Five races have been scheduled to go ahead over the summer months. Austria, United Kingdom, Hungary, Belgium and Italy will all hold races behind closed doors this year meaning fans will have to rely on super high definition tv in their homes if they want to imagine the feeling of being at the track on race day.  

The closed door policy will not affect Formula 1 revenues as much as you may think, the majority of revenues come from broadcasting rights.  Although Formula 1 admit they like most of the sporting world are facing shortfalls this year, Formula 1 the traditional sport of the rich and famous feel reasonably confident they can ride the shortfall for this year.

There will be very stringent disease control measures in place, teams will divided into social working bubbles and be monitored and tested frequently to be sure there is no infection in their midst.  The protocols would see teams sectioned into their operating bubble meaning that should anyone in their particular bubble test positive all would have to quarantine.  With good planning this should not disrupt racing for any team however should any team be too short handed to operate safely it may mean the driver will have to be pulled from the race. 

For the most part however most of us will just be glad to see the sport return and will take what we can get as we collectively start to understand our new normal.