Lewis Hamilton will not take part in this weekend’s Sakhir Grand Prix after testing positive for Covid-19.
The seven-time world champion, who wrapped up that title just over two weeks ago in Turkey, was tested three times prior to last Sunday’s race in Bahrain, coming back negative each time.
However, on Monday, Hamilton started showing mild symptoms after being informed he was in contact with a person who had subsequently tested positive for the virus.
And his latest test has confirmed the 35-year-old had contracted Covid-19, making him the third driver to do so this year following the Racing Point duo Sergio Perez and Lance Stroll.
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Hamilton, who won last Sunday’s race in Bahrain, will now go into self-isolation for a period of 14 days or until he provides a negative test.
That means he is also a doubt for next weekend’s season finale in Abu Dhabi.
Mercedes has confirmed they will announce a replacement for Hamilton in due course, with reserve driver Stoffel Vandoorne the most likely candidate.