McLaren CEO Zak Brown admits the decision to withdraw from the Australian Grand Prix was the “hardest decision” he’s made as a racer.
The British team was praised for their immediate action after a team member tested positive for the coronavirus on Thursday, a move that ultimately triggered the cancellation of the race weekend.
And the impact of that sole case will be felt for some time as those who were in contact with the team member go into isolation.
“McLaren fully supports the decision taken by Formula 1, the FIA and the Australian Grand Prix Corporation to cancel the event,” a statement read.
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“Overnight, 14 members of the team, in addition to the one confirmed case, were placed in quarantine at the team hotel for 14 days, in accordance with local health authority directives.
“These are individuals who had been in close contact with the team member who tested positive for coronavirus. These individuals are being supported by senior team personnel, who will stay behind with them during the quarantine period.
“Any other team members who show symptoms will be tested immediately and self-isolate, in line with our protocol,” it added.
“On arrival in the UK, no race team member will return to the McLaren Technology Centre for a period of 14 days, as a precautionary measure.”
While McLaren’s withdrawal was inevitable then after the case was found, coming to that realisation was still tough to take.
“As a racer, this was the most difficult decision I have ever had to make, as a CEO, it was the easiest decision to take,” Brown told FormulaSpy.
“I applaud the decision by F1, the FIA and the AGPC to cancel the Australian GP. The health and safety of the F1 family and local community must come first.”