The 1000 miles of Sebring canceled amid coronavirus

Le WEC is the last championship impacted by the now pandemic of coronavirus. Last night, United States President Donald Trump announced a suspension of arrivals of European nationals on its territory (except for the United Kingdom and Ireland), for a period of 30 days, due to the spread of Covid-19.

A directive which suddenly hits the World ChampionshipEndurance since the next round was to take place in Sebring (Florida) next week. The ACO did not hesitate for a second and decided to cancel the 1000 mile event.

“Given the large number of drivers, team members and officials who are still in Europe and expected to travel to the United States in the coming days, it would neither be possible nor appropriate to hold the race in their absence, indicates the promoter. The decision to cancel was communicated and accepted by John Doonan, President of theIMSA late in the evening of March 11. »

“This decision was not taken lightly. specifies Gérard Neveu, president of the WEC. Our teams and officials place great value on racing at Sebring in front of its enthusiastic and knowledgeable fans.

Although this cancellation was forced upon us due to travel restrictions between Europe and the United States, the WEC remains committed to the health and well-being of its teams, officials and fans at all times. Additionally, the quality of every aspect of a WEC racing event is at the heart of everything we do and will never be compromised. »

In addition to the cancellation of the race, the Sebring tests, scheduled for March 14 and 15, will not take place. The next round of the World Championship should therefore be the 6 Hours of Spa, on April 25. Provided that the race can take place.

A decision which for the moment does not impact the IMSA 12 Hour race scheduled for the same weekend, the American series having confirmed last night that its program remains current.