The Geneva International Motor Show has been cancelled after the Swiss government banned large events of more than 1,000 people as a measure to help combat the spread of coronavirus. The annual show is one of the world’s largest automotive events and attracted as many as 600,000 executives and car fans to the city last year. It was due to take place from 2-15 March, but all ticketholders will now be refunded.
The event’s director, Olivier Rihs, said the cancellation could cost the Geneva economy between €200m and €250m (£170m-£213m) because of lost spending. The organisers expected to lose about €2m, although carmakers’ fees to exhibit were non-refundable, he said. “In view of the current situation and the spread of the coronavirus, the federal council has categorized the situation in Switzerland as ‘special’ in terms of the Epidemics Act,” the cabinet said in a statement on Friday.
“Large-scale events involving more than 1,000 people are to be banned. The ban comes into immediate effect and will apply at least until 15 March.” The Basel carnival, which is listed by UNESCO as an important part of intangible cultural heritage and due to run from 2 to 5 March, is also likely be cancelled.
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