Australian classic Finke Desert Race cancelled for the first time in 44-year history.
 

Two-day epic Aussie classic, the Finke Desert Race has been cancelled following government advice and restrictions surrounding the Coronavirus pandemic.

Government advice specifically banning of public gatherings over 500 people, travel restrictions, no camping and obvious health implication of a large-scale public event mean the Finke will not run this year, June 5-8. 

“I'm devastated to hear that Finke 2020 is cancelled,” says double-Dakar and six-time Finke winner, Toby Price. “It’s something myself and a lot of Australians look forward to every year. Safety does come first so we'll be back more determined than ever for next year.”

The statement from the Finke president, Antony Yoffa:

To Finke competitors, sponsors, suppliers, volunteers, officials, ambassadors and supporters.

On behalf of the Finke Desert Race committee, I regret to advise that the Tatts Finke Desert Race for 2020 has been cancelled. Australian Government advice to restrict gatherings to 500 people or less meant we had no option but to cancel. Additionally travel to Aputula community (Finke) has been restricted so we wouldn’t be able to camp overnight. This is the right decision based on health grounds.

To all our competitors, we will send further advice on refunds of entry fees. This may take some time and I ask that you be patient as we work through the process. We will send you another message in the coming weeks.

This is the first time in the events 44 year history that we have had to take this action. There is no one to blame here and I am sure there will be many very disappointed people however things are beyond our control.

Keep monitoring the advice from all governments on how to stay as safe as possible.

All being well, we will see you in 2021.

Antony Yoffa

President

Finke Desert Race