Yamaha has been forced to cancel the inaugural European Blu Cru R3 Cup due to coronavirus issues.

The up was set to run alongside eight rounds of the FIM Superbike World Championship in 2020, following a collaboration between Yamaha Motor Europe, the FIM and Dorna, supported by JiR (Japan Italy Racing).

Unfortunately, travel restrictions and the necessary COVID-19 safety protocols, which would have impacted heavily on the coaching aspect that is so important to young riders taking their first steps on the world stage, together with concerns over increased personnel at WorldSBK rounds were major factors in the difficult decision to cancel the series for this year.

Despite this, Yamaha is committed to running the Yamaha R3 bLU cRU FIM European Cup at its full 36-grid capacity during the 2021 season.

"It is with great regret that we have had to make the decision to cancel the inaugural Yamaha R3 bLU cRU FIM European Cup due to the coronavirus pandemic," said Yamaha head cheese Andrea Dosoli.

"Restrictions introduced to combat the coronavirus pandemic are being eased by countries at a different rate, which could result in some overseas competitors being unable to travel to races due to travel restrictions imposed by their own or other government bodies.

"In addition the necessary COVID-19 safety protocols would be difficult to implement for such a large group of riders, and the requirement for social distancing would impact negatively on the coaching and mentoring philosophy that it is such an important part of the series.

"It is for these reasons we made the decision to cancel the series this year and instead focus on preparing for 2021, when we hope to enjoy a full season of racing."

Aimed at riders from 12 years of age, the championship will provide an ideal, cost-effective first step onto the world stage, with each entrant provided with Yamaha’s race-winning R3 bike, as well as Pirelli tyres, coaching and technical assistance, full race kit and paddock attire.