Rescheduled Gateshead Grand Prix athletics cancelled as coronavirus halts stadium upgrade works

Diversity performing at the Grand Prix at Gateshead Stadium last year Credit: PA Images

British Athletics has confirmed that the rescheduled Grand Prix, due to take place at Gateshead Stadium in September, has been cancelled.

The event was originally scheduled for mid-August, but the date was moved because of the pandemic.

British Athletics and Gateshead Council say coronavirus has prevented work going ahead on the upgrade of the stadium.

Joint statement from Gateshead Council and British Athletics: 

"It is with sad news that we announce that the proposed Müller Grand Prix Gateshead due to take place this September, has now been officially cancelled.

The government measures brought in earlier this year due to COVID-19 have ultimately prevented the progress of the much-needed upgrade of the facilities at the Gateshead International Stadium. Time has ultimately defeated us to ensure that International athletes can not only compete in a safe manner but can also compete to their full potential using world class facilities.

"We will continue to work together to achieve our ambition of returning International Athletics back to Gateshead next year." 

They hope international athletics will return to the venue next year.