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Race officials confirm any Hungarian Grand Prix will take place without fans
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If the Hungarian Grand Prix goes ahead this year, race officials have today confirmed it will do so without fans in attendance.
F1 chiefs are currently working on a revised calendar for the 2020 season after the coronavirus pandemic caused a raft of race postponements and cancellations in the first half of the year.
F1 CEO Chase Carey announced earlier this week that it is hoped the season can get underway in July, beginning with the Austrian Grand Prix.
But as governments around the world continue to restrict movement of large numbers of people, Carey made clear there may have to be some races held without fans - and on Monday, Silverstone bosses confirmed that if the British Grand Prix does go ahead, it will be behind closed doors, with no fans at the event.
And today, Hungarian Grand Prix officials announced the same scenario for their race - which is scheduled for August 2 - after the Hungarian government banned any event involving more than 500 spectators until August 15.
READ MORE: Statement from F1 CEO Chase Carey - Target is to begin season in Austria on July 5
It has now become clear that we cannot hold the 35th Formula 1 Hungarian Grand Prix in front of spectators despite all our efforts
A statement said: "The Hungaroring team has been waiting until the very end and is still working with the international rights holder, but it has now become clear that we cannot hold the 35th Formula 1 Hungarian Grand Prix in front of spectators despite all our efforts."
The statement added that this decision was necessary to protect the health of fans and circuit staff alike.
"In recent weeks, we have been constantly voicing that we are open to any solution in order to host the Grand Prix again this year, and it became clear yesterday that all this is only possible behind closed gates.
"We will continue to work with the international promoter to find the best possible solution," the statement added.
Those who have already bought tickets to this year's race will have the opportunity to transfer their ticket for the 2021 Grand Prix, or get a refund. Visit hungaroring.hu for more information.
READ MORE: F1 and coronavirus FAQ - Everything you need to know
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