12H Estoril Canceled; European Season to Start in Spa

Photo: 24H Series

Creventic has forced to cancel the Hankook 12 Hours of Estoril, which was due to kick off the 24H Series Europe schedule later this month, due to the coronavirus epidemic.

The Dutch organization, which had initially replaced its season-opening round at Monza with the Portuguese circuit,  announced on Friday that the replacement race scheduled for March 26-28 can no longer go on as planned.

It comes after the Portuguese Motorsports Association has announced the cancelation of all motorsports activities for the next three weeks. 

Creventic also cited increased travel restrictions across Europe and the U.S. as well as the its commitment to the health and safety of all personnel.

“Though difficult, we at Creventic feel this is the correct course of action at this time, and would like to thank all of fans, competitors, series partners and sponsors for their continued support,” a statement read.

“Creventic would also like to thank the management team at the Circuito do Estoril for their help and understanding during this troubling period, and hope to see Estoril on the 24H Series schedule once again in the foreseeable future.”

Preparations will continue for the next round of the 24H Series, which is still scheduled for Spa-Francorchamps on May 1-2, despite the Belgian circuit currently being closed until at least April 3.

The Spa weekend is set to feature a double-header with the Hankook 12H Spa and the second running of the TCR Spa 500, pending approval from local authorities.

Creventic “Aware” of New Date Clash for 24H COTA

An alternative date will have to now be found for its 24H Series Continents season-ending round at Circuit of The Americas, after MotoGP took the Nov. 13-15 slot due to the postponement of its race at the Austin circuit that was originally scheduled for next month.

“Despite having a signed agreement with the Circuit of the Americas for Nov. 13-15, Creventic is aware that the date has now been given to MotoGP as a replacement for their cancelled round earlier this year,” Creventic’s statement said.

“Creventic is in touch with the relevant authorities and is currently looking for alternatives, including an alternate date one week after the previously scheduled round or an alternate circuit.

“An update regarding this matter will follow in due course.”

John Dagys

John Dagys is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Sportscar365. Dagys spent eight years as a motorsports correspondent for FOXSports.com and SPEED Channel and has contributed to numerous other motorsports publications worldwide. Contact John