The Formula 1 season opener at the Australian Grand Prix could be postponed because of COVID-19 restrictions in Australia.

The original start date for the upcoming season is for March 19 – 21.

“The government will continue to prioritize public health considerations while protecting our major events calendar,” a Victoria state spokesman said.

“Discussions between the Australian Grand Prix Corporation, the government and F1 management about the F1 calendar for 2021 are ongoing.”

Australia is maintaining strict quarantine rules on international arrivals throughout the country.

Last season, the Australian Grand Prix was called off hours before first practice was due to start, because of a McLaren team member testing positive for the virus.