F1 bosses have confirmed the 2023 Chinese Grand Prix has been cancelled as strict Covid-19 measures continue in the country.
The race has not gone ahead since 2019 due to lockdown laws in China but it was scheduled to return to the Shanghai International Circuit in April next year.
China has faced criticism from the rest of the world over its 'draconian' measures since the pandemic, and widespread protests have been staged across the country in recent months for greater freedom.
An F1 statement read: "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.
"Formula 1 is assessing alternative options to replace the slot on the 2023 calendar and will provide an update on this in due course."
A stringent zero-Covid policy has been in place in some cities, including the capital Beijing, since the first case in Wuhan in December 2019.
Some cities have begun to loosen their restrictions, which in some cases have included daily mass testing against Covid, however the civil unrest is continuing.
The statement from F1 does not indicate if the Grand Prix will take place in 2024 with a decision on whether there will be a replacement location unlikely before the end of this year.
The Chinese Grand Prix was due to be the fourth race of a record 24 for the 2023 season, and had been scheduled for April 16. It is unclear if the calendar will revert back to 23 races.
China hosted the first race at its Shanghai International Circuit in 2004. It was last won by former world champiom Lewis Hamilton, who has the best record in the race
The 2023 season is set to start in Bahrain on March 5. and will definitely have one new location, with Las Vegas added to the schedule.
