Formula One before Premier Race in Qatar?

DOHA (AP) — Qatar could host a Formula One race for the first time this year. As reported by several expert media, the Losel International Circuit, north of Doha, is set to stage the Australian Grand Prix, which was canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The race was originally scheduled for 21 November, but may not take place for the second year in a row due to strict entry and quarantine rules. Formula 1 is looking to publish a revised racing calendar in the coming weeks, which has become necessary due to a series of cancellations. Official confirmation for Qatar Premiere is yet to be received.

Only last week in October the Japanese Grand Prix was cancelled, and there are also no races in Canada and Singapore. There are also doubts whether races can be held in Brazil and Mexico and the situation in Turkey is tough.

Now it looks like the Formula 1 season will end with a three-pack in the desert. The final two races of the season in Saudi Arabia (December 5) and Abu Dhabi (December 12) are already as planned. Another race a week earlier in controversial Qatar would be a sensible choice, at least logically. The country, which is hosting the Football World Cup next year, has come under heavy criticism due to several human rights violations.

Formula 1 is still set to pull through the record calendar with 23 stops. Since the race is not possible later this year in Europe, there is a lack of options. Therefore, another race seems possible in the controversial Bahrain as well.