Singapore F1 can't be held behind closed doors: organisers

Singapore F1 organisers Monday said it was "t feasible" to hold race behind closed doors, threatening furr problems for coronavirus-ravd season. After 10 races were cancelled or postponed, Formula One bosses are aiming to begin season with two races in Austria in July, both without fans. Races in or countries are also expected to go ahe in closed venues. But Singapore Grand Prix, scheduled for September, is a nighttime street race around city-state's waterfront, where it would be challenging to keep spectators away.

Singapore F1 can't be held behind closed doors

Organisers said y have been in talks with Formula One, Singapore government and ors involved "to assess different possibilities" for holding race. But a spokesperson ded that "as Singapore F1 race is a street circuit, it is t feasible to conduct race behind closed doors". Ferrari's Sebastian Vettel won last year's race, which drew 268,000 spectators over three days, a substantial portion of m coming from overseas.

Work on street circuit, which requires "considerable temporary infrastructure", typically takes three months, organisers said.

"We will continue to keep a close watch on developments. Our utmost priority remains wellbeing and safety of our fans, staff, volunteers, and all Singaporeans," spokesperson said.

Like many or countries, Singapore has ordered closure of most businesses, vised people to stay at home, and banned large garings as it battles a virus outbreak.

tiny Souast Asian country has reported more than 28,000 infections, most of m among foreign workers living in crowded dormitories.

Officials say y may start relaxing some of curbs from early June.

Im creditS: AP