Daniel Ricciardo has tested positive for COVID-19 and must isolate before being released in time to compete in the 2022 Formula 1 season opener next week.
It means Ricciardo misses the entire second pre-season test in Bahrain, with Lando Norris to complete a third consecutive day in the MCL36 on Saturday.
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.— Daniel Ricciardo (@danielricciardo) March 11, 2022
Ricciardo felt unwell on Wednesday in Bahrain and skipped the first day as a precaution, then failed to recover in time to drive on Friday.
At the same time, McLaren said he had taken several COVID-19 tests that came back negative.
Ricciardo was said to be feeling better on Friday and the team was optimistic he would be able to drive on the final day but Ricciardo has now returned a positive PCR test for COVID-19 after all.
He is isolating and McLaren expects him to be released in time for next weekend’s Bahrain Grand Prix, in accordance with local regulations.
“Daniel is already beginning to feel better, and we wish him well for a quick recovery,” McLaren’s statement read.
“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.”
