24H Spa Postponed

Photo: SRO

The Total 24 Hours of Spa has been officially postponed due to the Belgian government’s restriction of mass events until the end of August.

The Intercontinental GT Challenge powered by Pirelli and GT World Challenge Europe powered by AWS Endurance Cup round, scheduled for July 25-26, had come under question following Wednesday’s announcement from the Belgian Prime Minister that confirmed all large public gatherings would be prohibited until “at least” Aug. 31 due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

In a statement released Wednesday evening, SRO Belgium said it “fully respects” the government’s decision, with the race moving to a “revised date” later in the year to comply with the guidelines. 

“With so much hard work and passion already invested in the event’s long-term preparation, it is naturally disappointing that it can not be staged on its traditional date,” the SRO statement read. “However, the safety of our fans and competitors is of the highest importance.

“What’s more, a new date is being finalized with the circuit and will be announced as soon as possible.

“The same level of dedication will now be focussed on creating a world-class spectacle in autumn 2020.”

The postponement is set to have an impact on both the GTWC Europe and IGTC calendars, with the global GT3 series due to visit Suzuka in August, followed by Indianapolis in October and the season finale in Kyalami in November.

It’s unclear where Spa could fit into the calendar or if other IGTC rounds will be forced to be postponed or canceled.

SRO Motorsports Group President and CEO Stephane Ratel told Sportscar365 that one of his scheduling scenarios would have been to start the GTWC Europe season at Spa on its original date in late July, which is no longer the case.

Additional contingency plans are believed to be in place, however.

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