Racing Point driver Sergio Perez says he followed all of the FIA’s protocol and that his positive Covid-19 test result “shows how vulnerable we all are.”
Perez returned an inconclusive test on Thursday and a re-test confirmed that he was diagnosed as Covid-19 positive.
Under UK health guidelines he will self-isolate and not participate at this weekend’s Formula 1 British Grand Prix.
He is set to be replaced at Racing Point by Nico Hulkenberg.
Perez revealed that he returned to his native Mexico after the Hungarian Grand Prix in order to visit his mother, who had suffered an accident, but stressed that he adhered to all relevant guidelines.
“Hi everybody, as you know I tested positive for Covid-19,” Perez said in a video on Friday morning.
“I’m extremely sad, it’s definitely one of the saddest [moments] of my career, the preparation we put in to this weekend to be 100 per cent ready for it, I knew I had a great car, the team had done a fantastic job.
“I’m really sad this happened but it shows how vulnerable we are all to this virus.
“I followed all of the instructions from the FIA and my team, after Hungary, to take a private plane to Mexico to see my mum for two days as she had a big accident.
“As soon as she left hospital I could see her, then I came back to Europe the same way, with all the protocols in place.
“I got it, I don’t know from where, I have no symptoms at all, it shows how vulnerable we all are.
“I want to thank my fellow drivers for all the support they have given me, my team, the authorities, the fans, it is a tough moment for me at the moment but I’m sure I will come back stronger from this.
“Stay safe, look after yourself, and your families, and I hope to see you soon at the race track.”
Hulkenberg is at Silverstone and due to get behind the wheel of the RP20 on Friday.
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