Rescheduling The Automotive Calendar
COVID-19's impact on automotive events
Approaching 2 weeks since the government actioned lockdown and stricter social distancing in the UK, we take a moment to review what effect these measures have taken on the automotive events calendar for 2020.
With coronavirus throwing the calendar in disarray, the classic car world is not the only industry struggling to rearrange dates and venues – everything from iconic sporting events, Olympic Games and Wimbledon, to the world of music, Glastonbury festival, now forced to postpone or cancel their upcoming dates altogether.
Much to our regret our very own Coffee, Cakes and Classic Cars events series has also joined this growing list. With all future events, from our Drive-It Days to Enthusiast Meets postponed until further notice. With the well-being of our staff, customers and attendees being our utmost priority, we will aim to announce revised dates in the upcoming months.
We've taken the time to pull together some of those important announcements regarding those events impacted by the ever-growing global situation...
Goodwood Members’ 78th Meeting
Initially planned to take place last weekend, 28th-29th March, the 2020 meeting, celebrating its 78th event, has yet to announce new dates. Goodwood comments “We are currently exploring potential alternative dates with all relevant parties and I would like to reassure you that your ticket will remain valid for the new date”.
Some comfort is offered to their the patiently waiting fan base, as Goodwood also confirms its other upcoming events, such as Festival of Speed and Revival, continue as planned.
Techno Classica Essen
Closely following suit of like-minded events, the 32nd Techno Classica Essen show has been postponed until 24th to 28th June 2020. The organization’s primary goal is to ensure the good health of the customers, auction visitors and staff. The newly revised dates also allow the accompanying RM Sotheby’s sale to take place, hopefully restoring normality towards the end of June.
London Concours
The highly respected automotive garden party held in the heart of the City of London has a revised it dates, moving the Concours from early June to now taking place 19th-20th August in the usual setting of the Honourable Artillery Company venue, a move that hopefully ensures another day automotive indulgence whilst sunbathing in the British summer.
Grand Prix de Monaco Historique
One of the hardest-hitting announcements is the cancellation of the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique with no revised dates confirmed. This particular fallout from the automotive calendars comes at huge disappointment as it will be the first time in over 60 years the Monaco GP hasn't gone ahead. Organisers are in the process of reimbursing attendee. For more information regarding this process CLICK HERE.
Mille Miglia
Much to our and the globes delight the legendary 1000 Mille Miglia, entering its 38th edition of the historical race, has immediately received revised dates to now depart from Brescia on the 22nd October and returning on the 25th.
Le Mans 24 hours
The 88th 24 Hours of Le Mans, initially scheduled for 13-14 June, has been postponed until 19-20 September 2020. This postponement will, of course, have a roll-on effect to FIA WEC calendar, of which further revised dates are expected to be announced in the upcoming months.
Of course...
this 2020 automotive events calendar update is prone to change and is expected to constantly evolve alongside the global situation, therefore a level of caution is advised while making travel arrangements. From everyone here at E-Type UK...Keep safe, stay home where possible and save lives.