With the rise of new coronavirus infections in Italy, the government has taken measures to restrict travel from northern regions to stop the spread. However, Italy-based Ferrari is preparing to enter the Australian Grand Prix, the F1 opening round on March 15, as scheduled.
On Tuesday, the Italian government announced that it will restrict travel to other parts of Lombardy and its surrounding areas by April 3 in high-infected areas. However, it does not mean that movement is completely prohibited. In Italy, there are nearly 6,000 infected people.
Although Scuderia Ferrari’s headquarters Maranello is included in this restricted area, Ferrari reveals that race staff is leaving or preparing to depart as planned for the Australian open in F1.
“In response to the measures announced by the Italian government last night, we are monitoring the situation, conducting assessments and working closely with the relevant authorities and all relevant organizations,” a statement released by the team.
“For Ferrari, complying with government regulations is the priority, for assurance of the safety of employees and their families. All decisions are based on this principle.”
” Some have already arrived in Melbourne, and the rest of the departures will proceed as planned unless otherwise communicated. “
Team leader Mattia Binotto and other team leaders will leave for Melbourne on Monday. Members who have already arrived in Melbourne for preparation are alleged to have entered the country after undergoing a medical check at the airport. At the airport, it was possible to enter freely into the country after going through a temperature check.
Ferrari team members will be heading to Bahrain after Australia. Bahrain has strict restrictions on entry, and the Grand Prix has been decided to be held without spectators.
Although AlphaTauri’s headquarters in Italy and Faenza are not restricted, Varano de Melegari, which has a Dallara factory affiliated with Haas, is considered to be included in the restricted area. The headquarters of Pirelli, an F1 tire supplier, is located in Milan, a restricted-area.
