Lewis Hamilton says he is “devastated” that he will not be able to race at this weekend’s Formula 1 Sakhir Grand Prix after returning a positive Covid-19 test.
Hamilton suffered mild symptoms on Monday morning and undertook a Covid-19 test, which came back positive, the result of which was confirmed by a retest, ruling out of action for the foreseeable future.
As per the guidelines in Bahrain he has entered self-isolation for 10 days, meaning his participation in the season-ending Abu Dhabi event, on December 13, is uncertain.
It will be the first time that Hamilton has missed an event in his Formula 1 career.
![Alpine Managing Director Steve Nielsen [pictured with Executive Advisor Flavio Briatore] is stern in his belief Mercedes has acted correctly](https://www.motorsportweek.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Alpine-Steve-Nielsen-Flavio-Briatore-120x86.webp)
“Hi guys, I’m devastated that I won’t be racing this weekend,” Hamilton posted on social media.
“Since we started the season in June, my team and I have been taking all the precautions we possibly can and following the regulations everywhere we’ve been in order to stay safe.
“Unfortunately even though I returned three negative results this past week I woke up yesterday morning with mild symptoms and requested another test which came back positive.
“I’ve immediately gone into self-isolation for 10 days.”
Hamilton urged people to continue to adhere to hygiene guidelines.
“I’m gutted not to be able to race this weekend but my priority is to follow the protocols and advice to protect others,” he said.
“I’m really lucky that I feel OK with only mild symptoms and will do my best to stay fit and healthy.
“Please look after yourselves out there, you can never be too careful. These are worrying times for everyone and we need to make sure we are looking after ourselves and each other.”
Mercedes has yet to name a replacement for Hamilton.
![Alpine Managing Director Steve Nielsen [pictured with Executive Advisor Flavio Briatore] is stern in his belief Mercedes has acted correctly](https://www.motorsportweek.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Alpine-Steve-Nielsen-Flavio-Briatore-350x250.webp)
![Alpine Managing Director Steve Nielsen [pictured with Executive Advisor Flavio Briatore] is stern in his belief Mercedes has acted correctly](https://www.motorsportweek.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Alpine-Steve-Nielsen-Flavio-Briatore-360x180.webp)
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