Daniel Ricciardo’s absence from the first two days of Bahrain F1 Testing due to illness has been diagnosed, the McLaren driver has contracted the coronavirus.
The Australian was down to test alongside Lando Norris, but feeling unwell he skipped testing and the various photo-ops lined up for drivers on Thursday. He is now recovering while isolating as per requirements.
McLaren Statement:
“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. 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.”
This means that Ricciardo will only have one and a half days of testing under his belt, half of what his rivals have done and substantially less than Norris who will be on double duty for the team.