Lewis Hamilton tests positive for COVID-19

Lewis Hamilton, British Formula One driver and seven-time world champion, has tested positive for COVID-19.

In a statement on Tuesday, FIA, the international governing body for motor-racing events, said the 35-year-old is self-isolating in Bahrain and will miss this weekend’s Sakhir Grand Prix.

#F1 – Statement on COVID-19 Test Result for Lewis Hamiltonhttps://t.co/wIa9fMFk2o

— FIA (@fia) December 1, 2020

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“The FIA, Formula 1 and Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team can today confirm that during mandatory pre-race PCR testing for the Sakhir Grand Prix, Lewis Hamilton has tested positive for COVID-19,” the statement read.

“In accordance with COVID-19 protocols and public health authority guidelines in Bahrain he is now isolating. All contacts have been declared.

“The procedures set out by the FIA and Formula 1 will ensure no wider impact on this weekend’s event.”

Mercedes Benz also spoke concerning their star driver’s COVID-19 status in a statement.

“The Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team regrets to announce that Lewis Hamilton has tested positive for COVID-19 and will be unable to take part in this weekend’s Sakhir GP,” the statement read.

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— Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team (@MercedesAMGF1) December 1, 2020

“Lewis was tested three times last week and returned a negative result each time, the last of which was on Sunday afternoon at the Bahrain International Circuit as part of the standard race weekend testing programme.

“However, he woke up on Monday morning with mild symptoms and was informed at the same time that a contact prior to arrival in Bahrain had subsequently tested positive. Lewis therefore took a further test and returned a positive result. This has since been confirmed by a retest.

“Lewis is now isolating in accordance with COVID-19 protocols and public health authority guidelines in Bahrain. Apart from mild symptoms, he is otherwise fit and well, and the entire team sends him its very best wishes for a swift recovery.

“We will announce our replacement driver plans for this weekend in due course.”

In November, Hamilton’s victory at the Turkish Grand Prix saw him equal Michael Schumacher’s tally of seven world titles.