JUST IN: Canadian Grand Prix postponed due to COVID-19

Organizers of the Montreal Grand Prix, Canada have announced that the Formula 1 race won't hold due to the coronavirus crisis.

With 1,410,095 coronavirus cases and 81,010 deaths globally, the Montreal event becomes the ninth race to be called off so far this season.

The race had been due to be held on 14 June, but organisers had to make a decision now because of the length of time required to set up the track.

"At the moment it is crucial that all of our energies be put together to overcome COVID-19," François Dumontier, president of the Formula One Canadian Grand Prix, said in a press release. "We will welcome you with open arms at Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve as soon as it is safe to do so."[Montreal Gazette]

Other F1 races in line that are yet to be suspended or postponed are the French Grand Prix on 26 June, Austrian Grand Prix on 5 July.

The British Grand Prix is next on the calendar on 19 July, and Silverstone has said it has until the end of April before it has to make a decision whether to postpone that date.[BBC]

Canada has also been hit by the deadly virus as the health authorities have so far reported 17,825 cases and 374 deaths.

The Montreal organizer's full statement reads: