In this May 12, 2019 file photo, Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton (front, left) of Britain leads the race after the start of the Spanish Grand Prix at the Barcelona Catalunya racetrack in Montmelo, just outside Barcelona, Spain. (JOAN MONFORT / AP)

PARIS - The International Automobile Federation (FIA) has said that the shutdown period for Formula 1 drivers has been extended from 35 to 63 consecutive days in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

"All competitors must now observe a shutdown period increased from 35 to 63 consecutive days during the months of March, April, May and/or June. 50 days after the start of their shutdown period, upon application by a competitor, and subject to the prior written approval of the FIA, each competitor may use the services of a maximum of ten personnel to work remotely on long lead time projects," the body said.

F1 bosses are now hoping to start the coronavirus-shortened season in Austria in July, after the French Grand Prix was called off on Monday, becoming the 10th race on the calendar affected by the pandemic.

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