Perez: I’m very lucky that I’ve only had mild symptoms

Reuters 1 min read

Racing Point’s Sergio Perez will race in Spain this weekend after his latest COVID-19 test was negative, the Formula One team said on Thursday.

The Mexican missed the previous two grands prix at Britain’s Silverstone circuit after contracting the virus.

“Checo (Perez) tested negative for COVID-19 and the FIA have confirmed he can enter the paddock today and compete this weekend,” the team said at the Circuit de Catalunya near Barcelona.

Nico Hulkenberg has been filling in for Perez, qualifying third and finishing seventh in last weekend’s 70th Anniversary Grand Prix.

Perez tested positive before the British Grand Prix after returning to Mexico to see his mother who had been in hospital following an accident.

Speaking today, he said, “Firstly, I’m very lucky that I’ve only had mild symptoms, so I’ve been able to keep training and make sure that I’m ready to jump back behind the wheel of the car.

“I’m very glad I had my tablet to keep me entertained too, though! I’ve definitely missed racing and it was hard to watch from the outside. I can’t wait to get on track, hopefully this weekend,” added Checo.

Sunday’s race, like the five before it this season, is being held without spectators and under strict health conditions with teams operating in separate ‘bubbles’.

Racing Point are fifth in the championship despite being docked 15 points by race stewards after Renault protested the team’s 2020 car. The row is now set to go to the FIA’s International Court of Appeal.