Ricciardo tests positive for Covid-19

Daniel Ricciardo is out of the final day of pre-season testing in Bahrain after testing positive for Covid-19.

McLaren had declared Ricciardo unwell over the past two days, forcing him to sit out planned running at the Bahrain International Circuit.

The Australian had taken numerous Covid tests and had passed them all, and was seemingly on his way to returning to the cockpit for the final day of testing on Saturday.

But the team has now confirmed Ricciardo has tested positive, although under local guidelines, he will be okay to participate in next weekend's Bahrain Grand Prix.

"McLaren Racing can confirm that after feeling unwell from Wednesday onwards in Bahrain, Daniel Ricciardo has now returned a positive PCR test for Covid-19," a team statement read.

"Daniel is therefore continuing to isolate in accordance with local regulations.

"Under these regulations, Daniel will be released in time for next weekend’s Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix. Daniel is already beginning to feel better, and we wish him well for a quick recovery.

"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."

With typical good humour, Ricciardo could see the positive side, and thanked team-mate Lando Norris for his efforts via a post on social media.

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

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