Formula One and Silverstone have struck a deal which will see the British Grand Prix take place twice as part of the curtailed 2020 season.
Silverstone and F1 have reached an agreement which will see the British Grand Prix take place twice as part of the curtailed 2020 season when the coronavirus pandemic allows the action to get underway.
The British Racing Drivers Club had been in disagreement with F1 over a fee to the track for hosting both events.
A compromise has now been reached though and a deal struck for the venue to host two races when the 2020 season gets up and running.
A new threat to the event has emerged though with the UK government planning to impose a two-week quarantine on all international arrivals.
F1 CEO Chase Carey has tried to provide an update on the new-look 2020 calendar in the light of the COVID-19 global crisis.
He explained: “Were targeting a start to racing in Europe through July, August and beginning of September, with the first race taking place in Austria on 3-5 July weekend.
“September, October and November, would see us race in Eurasia, Asia and the Americas, finishing the season in the Gulf in December with Bahrain before the traditional finale in Abu Dhabi, having completed between 15-18 races.
“We will publish our finalised calendar as soon as we possibly can.”
When F1 does return in 2020 it is expected that it will be behind closed doors with no fans in attendance.
Silverstone managing director Stuart Pringle told BBC Sport: “I am delighted to confirm that Silverstone and Formula 1 have reached an agreement in principle to host two races behind closed doors this summer.
“However these races will be subject to government approval, as our priority is the safety of all involved and strict compliance with Covid-19 regulations.
“I would like to thank all our fans who have been so supportive throughout this and to assure them we are determined to do all we can to help Formula 1 put on a show this summer.”
F1 is trying to secure an exemption to the international arrivals rule which would allow staff and drivers to compete as normal.
The issue for the sport is seven of the 10 teams have bases in the UK.
Beyond staff travelling to different locations for races they will also need to visit the factory in between to work on the cars.
The current plans will see Silverstone hold two races after The Red Bull Ring in Austria which would kick off the season with a double-header on July 5 and 12.
Belgium have also agreed for their race to go on behind closed doors but an agreement between the sport and the track is still to be reached.
F1 also hope events will go ahead in Spain, Hungary, France and Italy as part of the European section of the 2020 season.
Hockenheim in Germany is on standby to host a race in case a track which is on the current calendar is unable to host.
Meanwhile, the FIA has delayed a vote on proposals to reduce the cost cap set to be introduced next year to next week.
Teams are suggesting to lower the level of $175m (£137.9m) enshrined in the rules to $145m, and then lowering again to $140m in 2022 and $135m for the period 2023-5.
