24 Heures Moto event at Le Mans latest to get halted by coronavirus

The Le Mans 24 Heures Endurance World Championship round has been postponed until September due to the ongoing coronavirus crisis.

The round-the-clock event, one of the highest-profile Superbike events in the world, was due to take place on 18-19 April 2020 but a ban on gatherings of more than 1,000 people introduced by the French government means it has now been postponed. The event will instead take place on 5-6 September.

“As a result of continued coronavirus-related health concerns and the French health minister’s ban on gatherings of more than 1,000 people, the International Motorcycling Federation (FIM), Eurosport Events, promoter of the FIM Endurance World Championship and the Automobile Club de l’Ouest, organizer of the 24 Heures Motos, have decided to postpone the 43rd edition of the 24 Heures Motos, initially scheduled to be held on 18 and 19 April 2020.

“ACO and Eurosport Events have already fixed the new dates, 5 and 6 September 2020, for the race which will as an exception close the 2019-2020 FIM EWC season.

“The FIM, Eurosport Events and ACO’s priority is to ensure the safety of spectators, teams, riders and all the people involved in organizing the event.

“These measures are being adopted in response to an unprecedented situation and the organizers are confident on the understanding of those concerned despite of the inconvenience caused.

“The “Pre-Mans” tests scheduled to be held on 31 March and 1 April have therefore also been cancelled.”

The cancellation of the Le Mans event means if circumstances don’t change the French MotoGP round at the same circuit on 15-17 May 2020 is also likely to be canned.

The event is currently listed as the second round of the season after the opening four events were cancelled or postponed. For now, the opening round is set to take place on 1-3 May at Jerez.