Covid 19 related travel restrictions in South East Asia see Series move for 2021
A revised location for the 2021 Asian Le Mans Series has been announced due to possible travel restrictions in South East Asia. The new season will be run, in its entirety, at the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi in February 2021.
Whilst every effort has been made by all those involved, including the circuits and the relevant Governments, to run the season as previously planned, the Series could not wait any longer for confirmation of the restrictions that may be in place in January next year.
The season will start with the first two races held between the 4th – 6th of February. The final two races are expected to be held on the 18th – 20th February. The full schedule and entry list will be released at a later date.
The new season will continue to be comprised of four x four hours races. The races will be run on two different layouts of the track, as well as combining night, day and twilight racing.
The Asian Le Mans Series as a whole is disappointed not to be racing at the Sepang International Circuit nor the Chang International Circuit in Buriram, but the teams’ thanks go to everyone at both circuits for all the work they put in to try and make the planned calendar happen.
The Series and the ACO would like to thank their partners, Michelin, and TOTAL, as well as the teams and drivers, for their understanding and full support of the new proposed format.
Pierre Fillon,
President of the Automobile Club de l’Ouest:
“This year has been unprecedented for all of us. Establishing this new calendar for the Asian Le Mans Series is not a decision that we have taken lightly. It is one that takes into consideration the challenges we have and presents an exciting alternative. It opens up new opportunities for the Series as it continues the strong growth seen over recent years. I look forward to watching the growth continue, and a season full of close racing.”
Cyrille Taesch Wahlen,
Managing Director of the Asian Le Mans Series:
“2020 has thrown up significant challenges for all of us due to the global impact of Covid-19. It is our responsibility to respond to these challenges in a way that not only ensures the health and safety of all of those involved, but also protects the sport and our teams. Each decision we make must find the right balance – offering exciting and enjoyable racing in a cost-effective manner, without compromising the quality of our Series.
“My thanks are also extended to all of our stakeholders for their patience and support of this change. We look forward to welcoming them to Abu Dhabi in February!”
Saif Al Noaimi,
Acting CEO Abu Dhabi Motorsports Management (ADMM):
“We look forward to welcoming the Asian Le Mans Series to Yas Marina Circuit. Abu Dhabi and Yas Island has proven itself to be a leading destination to hold global sporting events in a safe manner, and we hope the teams and drivers enjoy what will no doubt be a great event in the motorsports calendar."
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