Australian Grand Prix Corporation CEO Andrew Westcott has apologized to Daniel Ricciardo after the McLaren driver’s home race was canceled for the second year in a row.
The traditional season opener at Albert Park was the first victim of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and Victoria was unable to return for the start of this year’s season due to restrictions in the state.
Even though the race was postponed until November, the pandemic situation forced a new cancellation.
Westcott said, “On behalf of the Australian Grand Prix Corporation, I would like to say that we really regret not being able to stage the 21st round of the F1 season this year at Albert Park as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak of the F1 season.”
“We share your disappointment. These four days of GP at the Albert Park circuit, as well as MotoGP, and Australian Open tennis, are symbolic in building Australia’s birthplace status of all international events.
“This is a highlight of the year for us as much as it is a highlight for you, the fans, the drivers and everyone in F1 and the FIA,” he said.
Addressing the only Australian driver on the grid, Westcott continued: “Daniel Ricciardo, teammate, I’m sorry you didn’t get a chance to race at home this year, but I look forward to seeing you in 2022 when we Will present our new circuit together with new spec cars.”
“Thank you to the Government of Victoria, F1 and the FIA, for your unwavering support and continued commitment. It has been tough, but we are almost there. Thank you fans for understanding. Rest assured, in 2022, F1 is back at Albert Park. For this the team here will work tirelessly”, he concluded.
