McLaren has confirmed that the members of its race team who underwent a test for the COVID-19 coronavirus have returned negative results.
One member of the race team tested positive for the virus last Thursday, prompting the squad’s withdrawal from the Australian Grand Prix, which led to the event’s cancellation.
In addition to that team member, who swiftly recovered from the symptoms, an additional 14 personnel were placed in quarantine, with another following suit over the weekend.
On Wednesday McLaren confirmed that “all seven of its race team members who were tested for coronavirus while in quarantine in Melbourne have returned negative results.
“All are doing well and in good spirits. The one team member that tested positive initially is also now free of symptoms.
“The balance of personnel were not required to be tested at the direction of the medical authorities.
“In total, 16 members of the team were placed in quarantine, 14 due to close contact with the team member who tested positive, and an additional team member who developed symptoms over the weekend.
“As a precaution, these team members will remain in self-isolation for a further week to honour the 14-day period as requested by the Australian medical authorities.
“The team continues to be supported by three members of senior management who have stayed for the duration.
“On behalf of the team and all McLaren personnel in Melbourne, the team sends its thanks for all the well wishes, support and offers of care package deliveries, which are going a long way to maintain team morale.”
It is not yet clear when the 2020 Formula 1 season will begin.