COVID-19: F1 teams to build ventilators, stadiums used as hospitals
CGTN
Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil /VCG

Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil /VCG

Despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic wreaking havoc on the sporting calendar, the sport world has shown their solidarity in the fight against coronavirus. This has included donations from athletes and clubs, as well as all UK-based Formula One teams launching 'Project Pitlane' to manufacture and deliver respiratory devices.  

Seven UK-based Formula teams - Mercedes, McLaren, Red Bull, Racing Point, Haas, Renault and Williams -  have pooled their resources during the past two weeks to provide much-needed medical devices.  

A ventilator displayed at the second China International Import Expo in Shanghai, November 7, 2019. /VCG

A ventilator displayed at the second China International Import Expo in Shanghai, November 7, 2019. /VCG

Member teams will focus on the core skills of the F1 industry: rapid design, prototype manufacture, test and skilled assembly, according to the F1 website. 

"F1's unique ability to rapidly respond to engineering and technological challenges allows the group to add value to the wider engineering industry's response," it added. 

The announcement also says "the seven teams remain ready to support in other areas requiring rapid, innovative technology responses to the unique challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic."

Meanwhile, stadiums and arenas across the world have been converted into temporary hospitals or medical facilities to cope with the rising number of infections.  

Brazil's iconic Maracana stadium, opened for the 1950 World Cup and the stage for the final of the 2014 World Cup, as well as the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2016 Olympic Games, will be used for coronavirus patients. 

Sao Paulo's Pacaembu stadium and the Mane Garrincha stadium in Brasilia have also been converted into provisional hospitals in recent days.  

Award ceremony for the women's 75kg weightlifting competition during the 2012 Summer Olympic Games at the ExCeL Center in London, August 3, 2012. /VCG

Award ceremony for the women's 75kg weightlifting competition during the 2012 Summer Olympic Games at the ExCeL Center in London, August 3, 2012. /VCG

The ExceL center, which played host to seven Olympic and six Paralympic sports at London 2012, is expected to receive 500 patients next week, with the capacity to be expanded to 4,000 later on.

(With input from agencies)