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

Max Verstappen Nurburgring Results: NLS4 qualifying results and grid order

• Yesterday 23:57

F1 champion finally reveals all on Bob Mortimer and THAT scotch egg story

• Yesterday 23:13

Daniel Ricciardo swaps four wheels for two as F1 star makes thrilling appearance

• Yesterday 22:28

F1 star eyeing Lewis Hamilton seat reveals persuasive Ferrari signing talks

• Yesterday 21:44

The Sebastian Vettel 'torpedo' feud with rival that launched Max Verstappen's career

• Yesterday 20:54

Verstappen issues F1 quit ultimatum, Red Bull 'blocked' driver transfer - GPFans F1 News Recap

• Yesterday 20:15