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he Australian Grand Prix Corporation (AGPC) has confirmed the Formula One (F1) Australian Grand Prix and the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix have been cancelled for the second consecutive year.

The cancellations come following concerns of international travel and COVID-19 safety protocols and requirements, as well as Australia’s ongoing border restrictions between states and other countries.

Australian Grand Prix Corporation CEO, Andrew Westacott, said: “We understand this is not the news MotoGP and Formula One fans wanted to hear.”

“I would like to extend my thanks to the Victorian Government, Formula One, and Dorna Sports for their unwavering resilience and support during this challenging period, and for their ongoing commitment to these two great events.

“There are bound to be ongoing challenges with COVID-19, but I want to reassure fans that while there is sadness and disappointment amongst our wonderful AGPC staff, there is a tenacity and determination to make sure the next episodes of MotoGP at the island and Formula One at the new Albert Park layout are sensational showcases of how we do things in Victoria,” Westacott said.

Speaking at a press conference, Victorian Sports Minister, Martin Pakula, said Australia’s vaccination rates and recent travel restrictions caused difficulties in the planning and delivery of the events.

“Given the very low, national two-dose vaccination numbers and given the decision of national cabinet on Friday, we are simply not in a position to give F1 management or MotoGP the sorts of guarantees, assurances and comfort they need this week,” Pakula said.

“I had a conversation with Formula 1 management Stefano Domenicali last night, it was a very cordial conversation, we have an excellent relationship.

“I fully expect these events will occur in 2022, we’re aiming for an early season F1 event next year and a MotoGP on a date to still be determined, but we will work very closely, both the government and AGPC, with Formula 1 and MotoGP management to deliver those events,” he said.