The Australian Grand Prix has cancelled its u𒁏sual autograph sessions for Formula 1 drivers over fears relating to the coronavirus outbreak.

In an attempt to limit 𝓡interaction between drivers and fans amid the continued spread of COVID-19🌟, the Australian Grand Prix Corporation has confirmed it has replaced the traditional autograph sessions with live Q&A-style interviews for this weekend’s season-opener in Melbourne.

Driver inte♒raction with fans during the traditional Melbourne Walk has also been restricted, with direct engagement such as selfies or autographs banned.

A statement from the AGPC read: “In the current envi🤪ronment, the Australian Grand Prix Corporation wishes to advise fans of a change to the format of both the autograp﷽h sessions and the operations of the Melbourne Walk as they relate to both Formula 1 drivers and Supercars drivers.

"Autograph sessions will now be conducted as Q&A interview sessions. Drivers will continue to utilise the Melbourne Walk but will not be closely interacti🐽ng with fans for selfies, autographs or other direct engagement. We thank you for your cooperation and understanding.”

It comes after it was confirmed on Wednesday that three F1 team members from McLaren and Haas are currently self-isolatꦑing in their respective hotels are beingꦆ tested for coronavirus, having ꦬshown similar symptoms to the flu-like disease.

The teams are expecꦕted to carry out their usual operations ahead of the weekend as they await on th🐎e results, which are expected in the next 24 hours.

AFPC CEO Andrew Westacott responded with the folloꦏwing statement: "The Australian Grand Prix Corporation has been informed of three Formula 1  team personnel presenting for precautionary testing and who are now all undergoing precautionary self-isolation.

"The AGPC is monitoring t💙he situation in conjunction with Formula 1 and the FIA."