Formula One will run a series of virtual races, with some current drivers taking part, to replace a string of grands prix postponed by the coronavirus outbreak, the sport announced on Friday.
The first, run on the official F1 2019 PC video game, will be held on Sunday, when the Bahrain Grand Prix should have been.
"Every subsequent race weekend will see the postponed real-world Formula One race replaced with a Virtual Grand Prix," Formula One said.
The Esports Virtual Grand Prix Series will run until May. The season-opening Australian and showcase Monaco grands prix have been cancelled with Bahrain, Vietnam, China, the Netherlands and Spain postponed.
READ MORE
Lewis Hamilton says he's more committed to F1 than ever at age 41
New rules, same old suspects as Formula One revs up for 2026 season
The season is not due to start until the Azerbaijan Grand Prix on June 7, at the earliest.
"The first race of the series will see current F1 drivers line up on the grid alongside a host of stars to be announced in due course," Formula One said.
"In order to guarantee the participants safety at this time, each driver will join the race remotely, with a host broadcast live from (London's) Gfinity Esports Arena."
