First F3 race is in doubt

[Francesca]

It's highly likely now that the first F3 race (at least!) may be cancelled due to the terrible 'Foot and Mouth' disease sweeping the country.
Though if this happens, it will be very sad for F3 fans, teams and drivers I hope we all agree that it is for the best.

[gomick]

curious - why does the uk get mad cow and now foot and mouth ....that will be badluck for the f3 drivers who must be keen to get the season underway.

[Francesca]

It could affect the whole season, so it's very sad all round.

[FEUsmart]

Will this affect the F3000 testing due to take place at Silverstone on Monday and Tuesday?

[Francesca]

Nothing is confirmed but it was announced on Crash.net that the Silverstone GP is in doubt if the disease is still around in July:

"Silverstone may have landed both a long-term contract and a July date for the British Grand Prix, but the race remains under threat.

The recent outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease could lead to all motorsport in the United Kingdom - including the grand prix - being cancelled in an attempt to prevent the spread and continuation of the infection. Although the Formula One event is not for some months, the governing MSA has admitted that it may fall by the wayside if the outbreak is not contained by the summer.

The body has already suspended permits for minor events, particularly rallies, because of the proximity to, and use of, agricultural land, with Silverstone falling into this category, particularly when expecting large crowds as at the grand prix."

[Marshal]

While i agree that everything must be doen to minimise the impact of Foot & Mouth, I do wonder about cancelling Motor races, when the horse racing industry has just restarted. Fine if the circuit is in a restricted area, then no question of not racing. But if it is considered an acceptable risk for horse racing to continue, then motor racing, which has much less strong links with the rural community should acceptable too.

[ozywoodwards]

You also have to consider the cost of not running the British GP, which would be far greater than the cost of a few livestock catching foot and mouth.