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Record Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton has tested positive for the corona virus. This was announced by the automobile association Fia. Hamilton has been isolated and will not be able to participate in the second Mercedes race in Bahrain at the weekend.
In the video above you can see exactly how Lewis Hamilton got infected with the virus and what that means for his Mercedes team.
“Mild symptoms” in Hamilton
The world champion woke up this Tuesday “with mild symptoms.” Immediately after getting up he was “informed that a person with whom he was in contact prior to his arrival in Bahrain had subsequently tested positive,” the Mercedes team explained in a short statement that also includes information on Hamilton’s health: “Aside of the minor symptoms, he’s fine and feeling fit. “
The news is surprising because all the drivers are tested multiple times during a race weekend. The world champion is no exception. However, all three tests were all negative.
Who’s driving Hamilton’s car on the weekend?
Due to the COVID-related failure of the number 44, Mercedes has to find a replacement for the race on the “almost oval” track at Sakhir. The two Daimler Group Formula E drivers, Nyck de Vries and Stoffel Vandoorne, listed as substitute drivers, are available for choice. Both are still testing for the upcoming Formula E season in Valencia. That is why Nico Hülkenberg also participates in the draw. If the spontaneous trip from Spain to Bahrain works, Vandoorne is considered the favorite for the Sunday performance of Hamilton. Unlike his teammate de Vries, the Belgian already has two years of F1 experience.
In purely theoretical terms, it would also be possible for Mercedes to participate in the second Bahrain race with only one car. Both the drivers ‘and constructors’ world championships are already safe for the “Black Arrows”. However, it can be assumed that contractual agreements with the sponsors oblige the racing team to compete with two cars.
