World Endurance bosses have been forced to swap the iconic Suzuka Eight-Hours with the 12 Hours of Estoril due to the Covid pandemic.

Suzuka has been rescheduled to Sunday, 7 November when it will wrap up the 2021 season, with 150% points awarded for the final race while the Portugal round will take place on Saturday, 17 July.

The extension of health and entry restrictions in Japan, which make it difficult for international teams and riders to be welcomed to the country, has made it necessary for this decision to be taken in the interests of ensuring that both races take place.

"We suggested to the organizers of the Suzuka Eight-Hours and the 12 Hours of Estoril that they switch their dates for the good of the championship and to make it easier for teams to travel to Japan,” said François Ribeiro, Head of Eurosport Events.

“In the coming months, it will still be hard to have a clear idea regarding travel management and public attendance at the circuits. The 2021 season will be an excellent one with an opening race at Le Mans and a grand finale at Suzuka to decide the title.”