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

Related

More F1 news

Latest F1 news

Max Verstappen set for new seven-time champion rival at Nurburgring

• Yesterday 23:15

F1 star claims Red Bull may have already found Max Verstappen replacement

• Yesterday 22:30

Adrian Newey has unlocked 'SECONDS' of performance with brand new Aston Martin F1 car

• Yesterday 21:45

Fernando Alonso's astonishing demands to 'block Lewis Hamilton from gaining F1 data' revealed

• Yesterday 20:57

Max Verstappen signs for Mercedes and four other F1 silly season moves

• Yesterday 19:45

Lewis Hamilton reveals clear the air talks with Ferrari after shock attack from president John Elkann

• Yesterday 18:45