PARIS – The upcoming Formula One season will now start one week later than planned, with the Bahrain Grand Prix on March 28 set to serve as the season opener.

The Australian Grand Prix, which was set to open the season on March 21, has been moved later in the year to Nov. 21. The changes are the result of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Due to the ongoing travel restrictions in place the 2021 Chinese Grand Prix will not take place on its planned date, with Imola returning to the Formula One calendar on April 18 instead.

Discussions with the promoter and authorities in China are ongoing, with the potential to reschedule the race later in the season if possible.

One race remains unconfirmed, with that race date now set for May 2. Details regarding that event will be announced later.