Reigning World Champion Lewis Hamilton returned to on-track Formula 1 action for the first time since February as he drove Mercedes’ W09 at Silverstone on Wednesday.
Mercedes organised a two-day test at the British Grand Prix venue in order to practice the social distancing and hygiene protocols that have been revised in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.
All personnel present with Mercedes have already tested negative for coronavirus.
Personnel wore masks and other Personal Protective Equipment [PPE] and also practised social distancing where possible.
Valtteri Bottas piloted Mercedes’ title-winning 2018 car on Tuesday and on Wednesday Hamilton returned to the cockpit at a cold Silverstone.
Formula 1’s delayed season is due to begin with back-to-back races at the Red Bull Ring, Austria, on July 5/12, before travelling to Hungary the following weekend.
Silverstone is also due to host two races, with the British Grand Prix on August 2 and the 70th Anniversary Grand Prix on August 9.
Formula 1 teams will not be permitted to interact with each other in the paddock while there will be no hospitality, guests or spectators.
Formula 2, Formula 3 and the Porsche Supercup are due to be on Formula 1’s support package.
