Racing Point’s Sergio Perez has admitted he contracted the coronavirus after returning to Mexico to visit his mother.
Perez, who is the first regular Formula 1 paddock-attendee to test positive for COVID-19, is set to miss at least the next two races at Silverstone as a result.
Speaking in a video posted to his social media channels, Perez confirmed the diagnosis and detailed the cause behind it.
“After Hungary I took a private plane to see my mum for two days because she had a big accident,” he explained. “So as soon as she left hospital I was able to see her. Then I came back to Europe, same way, with all the protocols in place.
“I just got it, I don’t know from where. I have no symptoms at all. It shows how vulnerable we all are for this.”
A potential candidate for the podium positions this weekend with Racing Point, Perez admitted it was “one of the saddest days of my career”.
“The amount of preparation that we put into this weekend, to be 100 percent ready for it. I knew I had a fantastic car underneath me, that the team has done a fantastic job.
“I want to thank my fellow drivers for all the support they have given me, my team, the authorities, the fans, certainly tough moments for me but I’m sure I’ll come back stronger from this. Stay safe, look after yourselves and your families and hope to see you soon at the race track.”
Thank you everyone for your support and stay safe! 🙏 pic.twitter.com/9IjDKMaWy3
— Sergio Pérez (@SChecoPerez) July 31, 2020