China was due to host their first Grand Prix since 2019 in April next year in Shanghai at the Shanghai International Circuit.

F1 stated: "Formula 1 can confirm, following dialogue with the promoter and relevant authorities, that the 2023 Chinese Grand Prix will not take place due to the ongoing difficulties presented by the COVID-19 situation.

There were 24 races scheduled to take place in the 2023 season but due to China no longer being an option, it has been reduced to 23. 

China’s zero-covid policy has led to stronger and more restrictions as well as a continued lockdown which is ultimately the reason for the season being reduced to 2 races.

Discussions about possible replacements are said to be underway. With the Chinese Grand Prix no longer being on the calendar, there remains a four week gap between the Australian and Azerbaijanian races. There are several interested parties in taking China's spot, including Portimao for a Portuguese GP, which returned to F1 in 2020 and '21.

The 2023 race season is already highly anticipated with the debut of the Las Vegas Saturday night Grand Prix, a few new team shifts and signings as well as the big question, who will take over from Mattia Binotto as the Ferarri principle? 

The 2023 race season is set to get underway on the 5th of March 2023 in Bahrain.

Kayla Barker/OFM Sport