Following the letter from Denis Protsenko, the SWR Head of implementation and control of the COVID-19 mitigation strategy, the Rally Directorate have decided to take an alternative racing route.
To undertake such a large-scale sporting competition as the Silk Way Rally, organisers must deal with many issues, which need to be solved as quickly as possible both while preparing the rally and during the race. There are always several alternative programs prepared, ready to be implement in case of force majeure.
On July 3, Denis Protsenko sent a letter, stating that it was impossible to enter Mongolia to continue the race and that the rally must be stopped.
The SWR Directorate called for an emergency meeting with the Stewards, FIA and FIM Jury, and came to the following decision:
Considering the complicated situation and COVID-19 force majeure in Mongolia and realizing their full responsibility for the health of rally competitors and local people, the Rally Directorate have decided not to cross the border to Mongolia.
Vladimir Chagin, Rally Director: “Upon the joint decision of rally organizers and the President of Mongolia, all bivouacs and infrastructure, prepared for the Mongolian stages, will be provided to state and local authorities to set up anti-COVID-19 stations and to help the locals to fight the pandemic. Mongolia will also receive humanitarian supplies, delivered on behalf of the Rally Directorate."
The participants of the Silk Way Rally express their support to the Mongolian people. Fund raising for those suffering from the COVID-19 pandemic will be organised at the rally bivouac.