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COVID-19 Fears Prompt Cancellation of Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix

Phil Mercer

   SYDNEY - The Australian Formula One Grand Prix has been canceled
   because of concerns over the coronavirus. Other sporting events will be
   played in empty stadiums. In a rare address to the nation, Prime
   Minister Scott Morrison has sought to reassure and calm Australians.

   The Australian Grand Prix was to have been the first race of the new
   Formula One season.

   There were concerns about whether it would go ahead when a member of
   the McLaren Racing team tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. After
   lengthy deliberations, officials say the event in the Australian city
   of Melbourne will be canceled, but could perhaps proceed "at some later
   stage."

   The decision throws into doubt the rest of the Formula One schedule.

   An international one-day cricket match between Australia and New
   Zealand in Sydney Friday will be played behind closed doors. Experts
   are calling on the government to follow other countries, including the
   United States and Italy, and ban all large-scale sporting fixtures to
   try to stop the spread of the coronavirus.

   Australia has announced a $11 billion stimulus package to try to stave
   off recession as the economic impact of the disease intensifies.

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