Hamilton “devastated” to be sidelined with Covid-19

Lewis Hamilton has revealed to being “gutted” and "devastated" not to be racing in Bahrain again this weekend after testing positive for Covid-19.

The Mercedes driver, who has previously spoken about his extreme caution to limit his chances of catching the virus, requested a test after showing symptoms following Sunday's race and must now isolate for 10 days after returning a positive result.

“I’m devastated that I won’t be racing this weekend,” he said on Instagram. “Since we started the season in June my team and I have been taking all the precautions we possibly can and following the regulations everywhere we’ve been to stay safe.

“Unfortunately, even though I returned three negative results this past week, I woke up yesterday morning with mild symptoms and requested another test, which came back positive. I’ve immediately gone into self-islolation for ten days.

“I am gutted not to be able to race this weekend but my priority is to follow the protocols and advice to protect others. I’m really lucky that I feel ok with only mild symptoms and will do my best to stay fit and healthy.”

Hamilton, who will miss this weekend’s race and potentially the season finale in Abu Dhabi, which follows a week later, warned all his fans to continue to take the virus seriously and all the precautions possible.

“Please look after yourselves out there," he added. "You can never be too careful. These are worrying times for everyone and we need to make sure we are looking after ourselves and each other. Stay positive.”

Related

More F1 news

Latest F1 news

Red Bull slammed over Max Verstappen F1 ordeal: ‘They should be on their knees thanking him’

• 52 minutes ago

Honda unleash new F1 engine as Aston Martin enjoy early debut

• 1 hour ago

Max Verstappen's private jet travels to Red Bull HQ home as talks of new deal ramp up

• 2 hours ago

F1 News Today: Lewis Hamilton boss admits mistakes as F1 champion 'offered new deal'

• 3 hours ago

F1 star puts out fire after brakes turn to flames

• Today 15:12

F1 confirms 2026 season finale could move to Europe as decision deadline revealed

• Today 14:10