GP Stade Zottegem, one of the first races to be held in Belgium on the UCI's revised 2020 road calendar, has been canceled after organizers determined that the race could not be held due to uncertainties surrounding the coronavirus pandemic.

The race, originally scheduled for August 18, was renamed the 1.1 Egmont Cycling Classic and will next be held on August 17, 2021.

Jo Gosseye, organizer of the Zottegemse Wielerclub, told Sporza.be in February that he hoped the virus would be eradicated by August. Now it is more complicated as they begin to delve into the details of the race, including sponsorships and VIP packages for sale.

"We looked at all the possibilities, but in the end there was too much uncertainty given the heavy reliance on sponsorship," Gossey said.

"We also fully understand that sponsorship is not an immediate top priority for many of the entrepreneurs affected these days."

Zottegem Mayor Jenne de Potter emphasized the difficulty of keeping the race socially distant.

"Safety and public health must be paramount," de Potter said. 'Assuming that social distancing is still the norm this summer, it is very difficult to practice and maintain it in the finish zones and in the busy attractions along the route.'

"Additionally, it is not yet clear how many spectators will be able to attend sports and other events in August. Although heartbroken, Zottegem must fulfill its customary promise to the propeloton for once."