The Jersey Clipper is the current race leader

The San Fernando Race, between Hong Kong and the Philippines, was cancelled after authorities in the Philippine port of La Union refused entry to the fleet.

This is the second time the virus has affected the competition.

During the race between Hawaii and Hong Kong, the eight-strong fleet did not stop in Shanghai as planned, heading straight for the former British colony instead.

This is now one less race in which we could have gained a point to catch up with Jersey Richard Butler Bristol Clipper Skipper

The fourth leg will now race directly between Hong Kong and Singapore.

BBC Radio Bristol reporter, Fiona Lamdin, who has just returned from the competition, said a lot of disappointed families had flown out to Shanghai to be with the teams.

She added: "Around 30 local boats were due to race with the fleet to the Philippines, and they can't take part now either."

The San Fernando Race is the only opportunity in the race for the fleet to sail in competition with other yachts.

Homeward bound

Richard Butler, skipper of the Bristol Clipper, said he was disappointed not to be able to take part.

"Missing the stopover is also a shame as it is normally a good party, he added.

"But hopefully we will get to Singapore earlier and have longer there.

"For us, this is now one less race in which we could have gained a point to catch up with Jersey."

The Jersey Clipper is the current leader, closely followed by Bristol, with Liverpool in third place.

The fourth leg, which starts on Thursday, marks the start of the homeward stretch and will cover around 1,850 miles.

The fleet is expected to reach Singapore on Friday 2 May.