The Japan, Singapore and Azerbaijan Grands Prix have all been cancelled as the Formula 1 season continues to be hit by the coronavirus pandemic.

A number of races in the 2020 F1 calendar have already been affected by the outbreak, with the opening event in Australia and the flagship Monaco GP already lost from the season.

A statement from race organisers said: "As a result of the ongoing challenges presented by Covid-19, we and our promoters in Azerbaijan, Singapore and Japan have taken the decision to cancel their races for the 2020 season.

"These decisions have been taken due to the different challenges our promoters face in those countries. In Singapore and Azerbaijan the long lead times required to construct street circuits made hosting the events during a period of uncertainty impossible and in Japan, ongoing travel restrictions also led to the decision not to proceed with the race.

"At the same time we have made significant progress with existing and new promoters on the revised calendar and have been particularly encouraged by the interest that has been shown by new venues in hosting a Formula 1 race during the 2020 season.

"We appreciate this is still a time of uncertainty and complexity around the world and will continue to ensure we proceed with the 2020 season in a cautious and flexible way. We have detailed and robust safety plans in place to ensure we begin our season in the safest possible way."

Lewis Hamilton is looking to secure his fourth driver’s championship in a row this season and record-equalling seventh overall.