Australian GP canceled over coronavirus fears

The Australian Grand Prix has been canceled amid growing concerns over the coronavirus, Formula 1 announced Thursday.

The opening race of the season was scheduled for March 15. However, McLaren withdrew from the Aussie GP after a team member tested positive for COVID-19 on Thursday.

"We appreciate this is very disappointing news for thousands of fans due to attend the race and all ticket holders will receive a full refund and a further announcement will be communicated in due course," F1 said in a statement.

The organization announced Friday the postponements of the Bahrain Grand Prix and the Vietnam Grand Prix.