[PapaofGags]

Closed-door races possible as Brawn targets 19-race season.

Formula 1 boss Ross Brawn has confirmed that grands prix could be run behind closed doors when the 2020 season finally restarts – and that consideration is being given to running into next year.

The Bahrain GP was due to run without spectators before it was postponed, and the strategy is likely to be employed as part of the effort to encourage an early resumption in 2020.

Although the French GP on June 28 is currently the first scheduled race, Brawn conceded that July is a more likely time to start the season, and that it would probably be in Europe rather than a rescheduled flyaway event.

He believes that there is still a chance to run as many as 19 races – and that even a start as late October could allow for the eight races required to qualify for an official F1 World Championship.