The threat of the coronavirus (also known as COVID-19) has led the Swiss government to ban events that bring together more than 1000 people. One of the events affected by this decision was, precisely, the 2020 Geneva Motor Show.
The decision to ban larger events came at a time when Switzerland already has fifteen confirmed cases of coronaviruses. In a public statement, the Swiss government stated “large-scale events involving more than 1000 people are prohibited. The ban takes effect immediately and runs until March 15.”
For now, the organizers of the 2020 Geneva Motor Show have not confirmed the event's cancellation. However, in statements to Automotive News Europe, a spokesman for Palexpo (the venue where the 2020 Geneva Motor Show takes place) said: “we heard the announcement and we know what it means”.
However, if you want to watch live the official statement by the organizers of the Geneva Motor Show 2020, click on the button below:
Watch the Geneva Motor Show livestream here
Update: the 2020 Geneva Motor Show canceled
Although confirmation has only just arrived for the cancellation of the 2020 Geneva Motor Show, the truth is that the threat of the coronavirus had already led some brands to give up on the Swiss event.
Harman, a company associated with Audi, had already dismantled its stall earlier in the week and Byton had done the same last night. Furthermore, Aiways Chinese had already claimed that the outbreak had undermined their plans to have the U6ion prototype on display at the show.
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In addition, Toyota had already stated that it would reduce the staff present at the 2020 Geneva Motor Show to a minimum, and both the executive directors of Ferrari and Brembo had already stated that they would not be present at the Swiss event due to restrictions imposed by the Italian government to travel.
At this morning's press conference, Geneva Motor Show Director Olivier Rihs said: “The Motor Show cannot be postponed. It's not possible. It's too big, it's not feasible”. In this same conference it was revealed that the dismantling of the brands' stands will take place until the 7th of March.
And now?
Regarding the potential compensation for brands whose presence was guaranteed at the event, Olivier Rihs stated “this is a matter that is beyond our control. I don't believe that a lawsuit against the organization of the event has a chance. It is not a decision of the organization of the Geneva Motor Show. We have to follow government decisions.”
However, in an official statement the organization of the Geneva Motor Show 2020 stated that the financial consequences will be studied over the next few weeks. However, one thing is certain, the amount paid for tickets already sold will be refunded.