The McLaren Formula 1 team has announced that Daniel Ricciardo has tested positive for Covid-19.
As a result, the Australian will be forced to miss the final day of pre-season testing in Bahrain on Saturday.
Ricciardo has already sat out Thursday and Friday’s on-track running due to feeling unwell, however it was reported that he tested negative for Covid-19 several times.
After returning a positive result on Friday, McLaren asserted that he is not due to miss the opening round of the season in Bahrain next weekend.
“Daniel Ricciardo has now returned a positive PCR test for Covid-19,” read a team statement.
“Daniel is therefore continuing to isolate in accordance with local regulations.
“Under these regulations Daniel will be released in time for next weekend’s Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix. Daniel is already beginning to feel better, and we wish him well for a quick recovery.
“Following this, we can confirm that Lando Norris will remain in the MCL36 for the final day of the official pre-season test in Bahrain tomorrow.”
The situation marks a major setback for Ricciardo and his preparations for the 2022 F1 season.
Ricciardo managed to clock 212 laps in Barcelona two weeks ago at the pre-season shakedown.
The 32-year-old released his own statement on Friday evening, which read: “Better this week than next.
“Unfortunate to miss the test, but I’m starting to feel better. I’ll stay isolated and just focus on next weekend.
“Big thanks to Lando & McLaren for the heavy lifting, I owe you some beers (milk for Lando). Appreciate the well wishes from everyone.”
McLaren has endured a difficult test so far in Bahrain, as it is dealing with overheating brakes, which is limiting its ability to complete long-distance runs.
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