The Geneva Motor Show has been cancelled, while the MIPIM property fair will happen despite numerous withdrawals, as coronavirus continues to disrupt events across Europe.
The organisers of the Geneva Motor Show, which was due to open on Tuesday 3 March, announced today that this year's fair has been cancelled due to a government ban on large events.
"We regret this situation, but the health of all participants is our and our exhibitors' top priority," said Maurice Turrettini, president of the Geneva Motor Show foundation.
"This is a case of force majeure"
The Geneva Motor Show is one of the world's most significant auto fairs where car manufacturers unveil new models and future concepts. It was expected to attract more than 500,000 visitors. The show was forced to cancel its event after the Swiss Government made the decision yesterday to ban "large-scale events involving more than 1000 people" until March 15, in response to the coronavirus outbreak.

"This is a case of force majeure and a tremendous loss for the manufacturers who have invested massively in their presence in Geneva," continued Turrettini. "However, we are convinced that they will understand this decision."
The statement from the Geneva Motor Show could mean that car manufacturers and attendees will not be compensated, as force majeure clauses are commonly included in contracts to release an organisation from liability in extraordinary circumstances.
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