Perez explains saddest day of his career

Ian Parkes
Friday 31 July 2020 11:07 - Updated: 11:09

Sergio Perez has conceded to enduring one of the saddest days of his career after testing positive for Covid-19.

The Racing Point driver is out of this weekend's British Grand Prix, and will be replaced by Nico Hulkenberg.

It is almost certain Perez will also sit out next weekend's 70th Anniversary Grand Prix at Silverstone given the 10-day quarantine order now in place in the United Kingdom that came into force this week.

Perez has revealed to undertaking a trip to Mexico following the Hungarian Grand Prix to see his mother, who had been involved in an accident, but insists he adhered to all the FIA protocols.

Speaking in a video message via his Twitter feed, Perez said: "As you know I tested positive for Covid-19. I'm extremely sad, probably one of the saddest days in my career.

"The amount of preparation we have put into this weekend to be 100 per cent ready for it, I knew I had a great car underneath me, and the team had done a fantastic job.

"I'm really sad this happened. It shows how vulnerable we all are to this virus. I followed all the instructions from the FIA, my team.

"After Hungary, I took a private plane to go to Mexico to see my mom for two days. She had a big accident, so as soon as she left the hospital, I was able to see her.

"And then I came back to Europe, same way, with all the protocols in place, and I just got it, I don't know from where. I've no symptoms at all, so it shows how vulnerable we all are to this."

Appreciating the support of everyone around him, Perez added: "I want to thank all of my fellow drivers for all of the support they have given me, my team, the authorities, the fans.

"Certainly they are tough moments for me at the moment but I am sure I will come back stronger from this.

"Just stay safe, look after yourself, after your families, and I hope to see you soon at a race track."

Thank you everyone for your support and stay safe! 🙏 pic.twitter.com/9IjDKMaWy3

— Sergio Pérez (@SChecoPerez) July 31, 2020