After an inconclusive test earlier this week, the FIA has confirmed that BWT Racing Point F1 driver Sergio Pérez has tested positive for the coronavirus and will subsequently miss this week’s British Grand Prix.
A statement by the FIA late Thursday evening announced the Mexican’s second test had come back positive, and he becomes the first Formula One driver to contract the virus.
“Following today’s announcement that Sergio Pérez of the BWT Racing Point Formula 1 Team produced an inconclusive test result for COVID-19 at the Silverstone Circuit ahead of the 2020 FIA Formula 1 British Grand Prix, the FIA and Formula 1 can now confirm that the result of his re-test is positive” reported the FIA.
The statement continued, “Pérez has entered self-quarantine in accordance with the instructions of the relevant public health authorities, and will continue to follow the procedure mandated by those authorities. With assistance of the local organiser of the British Grand Prix, local health authorities and the FIA COVID-19 delegate, a full track and trace initiative has been undertaken and all close contacts have been quarantined.”
Although many speculated about the event’s cancellation, the FIA were quick to notify fans that the Grand Prix would still take place.
“The procedures set out by the FIA and Formula 1 have provided for swift containment of an incident that will have no wider impact on this weekend’s event.”
The experienced driver will remain in self-isolation for the foreseeable future and will hopefully make a swift return after his recovery, with ex-F1 driver Esteban Gutierrez and Formula E racer Stoffel Vandoorne likely to be the Mexican’s replacement for the weekend.
