Sergio Perez will miss this weekend’s British Grand Prix after testing positive for Covid-19, it’s been confirmed.
Earlier on Thursday, it was revealed the Mexican was absent from his media duties after being put into isolation following an “inconclusive” result to his first test.
Now, the outcome of a second test has confirmed Perez is indeed positive for the coronavirus.
“Following the announcement that Sergio has tested positive for COVID-19 at the Silverstone Circuit ahead of the Formula 1 Pirelli British Grand Prix, the team regrets to announce that he will be unable to participate in this weekend’s race,” his Racing Point team said in a statement.
“Sergio is physically well and in good spirits, but he will continue to self-isolate under the guidelines of the relevant public health authorities, with safety the ultimate priority for the team and the sport.
“The entire team wishes Sergio well and looks forward to welcoming him back into the cockpit of the RP20 soon.”
It’s expected Perez will miss both upcoming races at Silverstone, with the UK now requiring all people who test positive for Covid-19 to quarantine for at least 10 days.
However, Racing Point has confirmed a stand-in will be brought in to partner Lance Stroll.
“Our intention is to race two cars on Sunday. We will communicate the next steps for our British Grand Prix weekend in due course,” their statement concluded.
Esteban Gutierrez is the name being mentioned the most as Perez’s likely replacement, this as Mercedes’ first reserve Stoffel Vandoorne currently prepares for Formula E’s upcoming six races in nine days to conclude Season 6.
